Yoruba, Gelede Society Mask
25 cm (10"), Nigeria

The Yoruba are among the most culturally, politically, and religiously active ethnic groups in Nigeria. The southwest of Nigeria, which was heavily influenced by the slave trade until the 19th century, was also known as the Slave Coast. Various cults shape the life of the Yoruba, including the Gelede society, which enjoys high esteem not only in Nigeria but also beyond its borders, extending to Togo and Benin. Although the majority of this society's members are men, the most important positions are occupied by women, known as "Iyalashe," "Iya," and "Iyalaja," who possess characteristics of witches and master numerous magical formulas. An identical mask was displayed in the exhibition "Origin and Modernity" in Linz, Upper Austria, in 1990, from the collection of Professor Erwin Melchardt. William Fagg attributed this type of mask to the carvers of Kobadoku or Alimede. The depicted helmet mask is almost black in color and equipped with a three-part hairstyle, partly adorned with ribbed decor. Tribal-specific decorative scars are found on the forehead and cheeks. It is an old mask, used in cult practices and of significant importance.
Collection: G.F. Vesely, AT