Gelede mask – Wood – Yoruba – Nigeria

Beautiful mask from the Yoruba tribe of Nigeria. Gelede Masks, are according to the Society of African Missions (SMA) To Protect Man from Witches. Gelede masks are worn by men, but may portray a wide range of male and female characters. The masks are formally danced in identical pairs and adorned with elaborate, colorful costumes composed of numerous layers of expensive imported cloth, as well as locally made cloth. The mask is worn tilted over the forehead, allowing the dancer to see out beneath the rim through an attached veil of cloth. Good condition with clear traces of wear and tear.

The mask is beautiful carved with 2 ancestors and a snake on top. In African regions snakes symbolize immortality because some species will bite and hold onto their tails, forming a circle. They also symbolize fertility and protection.

Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany.