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West Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba peoples, ca. mid 20th century CE. An interesting example of a hand-carved, wooden Gelede mask. The face shares common features with other Yoruban masks, with large, almond-shaped eyes that bulge outward from the face and deeply incised diamond-shaped motifs on the cheeks. However, the shape of the face is flatter than many similar masks, with a large mouth full of teeth and a protruding tongue. Size: 6.7″ W x 9″ H (17 cm x 22.9 cm)
The Gelede is a celebration of the power of women – spirits, ancestors, and older women of the community – that incorporates art and masked dance in a colorful, lively spectacle. Gelede masks like this one are worn with a bright, cloth costume that hangs down from the fabric ring on the bottom of the mask. Mask decorations vary widely, and are meant to show the personality and lineage of the person wearing the mask.
Condition: Intact, with light surface wear commensurate with age.
Provenance: ex Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA, acquired prior to 1970
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