This Yoruba Gelede mask was originally purchased at the Ross Widen Gallery. This mask has three tiers of carved hair painted with black dots. The face features protruding lips and bulging eyes. Black lines on the face indicate the presence of scarification. Overall measures apprx 14" x 5-1/2" x 4".
Yoruba people reside primarily in Nigera but are often spread across to Benin. There are three main sections of Yoruba society, one of which is the Gelede sect. Gelede is dedicated to Yemoja, the mother of all angelic forces. The Gelede dance ceremony is most often concerned with the powers of the mother who is the primeval giver and taker of life. The ceremony features dancers who impersonate Yemoja by donning padded costumes and wearing masks such as this.
150/250 Sold $97.75
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