Early 20th C. African Yoruba Wood Gelede Mask
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Description
West Africa, Yoruba peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A fine example with nice aged patina - one of the most distinctive forms of West African masks. This is a helmet Gelede mask, made to be worn by men and to portray a range of male and female characters. The eyes and mouth are large, but its nose is quite minimized. A huge, crested hairstyle draws the eye immediately; cuboid studs jut out from either side of the head. Incised diamond shapes on the cheeks may represent tattoos or scarification. Size: 10.4" L x 7.5" W x 9.35" H (26.4 cm x 19 cm x 23.7 cm)
These masks are worn atop the head at festivals honoring the women of the community. The Yoruba peoples live in modern day Nigeria, Benin, and Togo in Yorubaland and are known for their distinctive masks.
Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#118585
These masks are worn atop the head at festivals honoring the women of the community. The Yoruba peoples live in modern day Nigeria, Benin, and Togo in Yorubaland and are known for their distinctive masks.
Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#118585
Condition
Expected surface wear with pigment fading/loss as shown. Rich patina on exposed wood.
Buyer's Premium
- 24.5%
Early 20th C. African Yoruba Wood Gelede Mask
Estimate $600 - $900
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Item located in Louisville, CO, usSee Policy for Shipping
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