A Very rare, old and interesting wooden mask from the Yoruba peoples, Nigeria, Africa. Carved wooden helmet style mask with a female sculpture on top with arms above head carrying a burden (vessel). The entire mask is painted in kaolin clay and accented with indigo pigment.The Gelede spectacle of the Yoruba is a public display by colorful masks which combines art and ritual dance to amuse, educate and inspire worship. Gelede celebrates Mothers(awon iya wa), a group that includes female ancestors and deities as well as the elderly women of the community, and the power and spiritual capacity these women have in society. Elderly women whose longevity suggests a mystical power and a secretive knowledge are put into the same category as all those who hold important titles in cults for the gods and ancestors. Old age implies spiritual prowess taken from the end of menstruation. Thus menopause plays a role in the community that, unlike in Western civilization, is very revered. The mask measures 21 inches tall. ( 28.5 inches tall on professional custom display stand)Ex Amayas Neagle Gallery, NYC

Fair, well handled