A fine example of a Yoruban Gelede mask from Nigeria, early 20th century.
The Gelede mask is more accurately a headdress, since it rests on top of the head and the wearer's face is covered by a cloth veil. The headdress takes the form of a human head, on top of which are motifs that are intended to entertain onlookers but, in addition, usually address social concerns that may also be expressed in songs that are part of the masquerade. The headdresses are usually brightly painted.
Individuals or families will usually go to any length to make their headdresses as attractive and humorous as possible. The endless variety of the motifs and their combinations makes it difficult to attempt to construct a typology of Gelede headdresses.

Dimensions: 11.5 inch Width x 12.5 inch Height x 13.5 inch Depth

LCP ID-06