Africa, Nigeria or Benin, Yoruba, ca. early 20th century CE. A skillfully carved and meticulously painted Gelede helmet mask composed of two parts - the expressive mask, here an abstract male face with bold features, scarification marks, and a beard - the visage presenting an intense countenance of immense focus and concentration symbolizing the timelessness and infiniteness of the spirit world - and the superstructure, in this case an elaborate headdress resembling a birdcage with four separately carved birds, sky animals that represent the celestial realm, perching on top. Masks such as this one are usually worn by male Yoruba dancers at festivals honoring the women of the community, both alive and deceased, especially the highly revered Great Mothers who include both the elderly females of the community and ancestors of Yoruba society. Similar examples may be found in fine museum collections such as the African Art Museum and the Brooklyn Museum. Size: 10.75" in diameter x 18" H (27.3 cm x 45.7 cm)

Gelede performances entertain and educate, their narratives and movements representing Yoruban ideals of proper male and female conduct as well as documenting interesting elements of everyday life, such as this fabulous avian-inspired headdress. For the Yoruba people, Gelede masquerades are a means of celebrating and recognizing the importance of females to their society, as the Gelede society whose purpose is the maintain peace is devoted to the mother of all orishas (deities), Yemoja who represents motherhood, family, sexuality, nurturing, and protection and is viewed as the matriarchal head of the universe.

Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.

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#118535

Some age cracks and separations in wood as shown. Paint is still quite vivid, with minor pigment losses and scuffs.