A Nigerian Gelede masquerade wood mask with colored pigments from the Yoruba people, dating to the first half of the 20th Century.
The mask is carved from wood with chevron pointed cap painted light blue, the face with pierced blue eyes and black scarification on a white ground. The mask with four holes to each side to allow it to be worn.
The previous owner's label is attached to the inside.
Provenance:
Purchased Christie's, 22 July 1981, Lot 117, thereafter with a private London collection. Copy of Christie's catalogue page included.
Background:
These masks are worn by men in elaborate masquerade performances known as ‘Gelede’, taking place each year between March and May, at the beginning of a new agricultural season.
The purpose is to pay tribute to the special power of women, both elders and ancestors, who are known affectionately as "our mothers." Women can use a spiritual life force, ‘ase’, which can be creative or destructive.
When these destructive powers are used women are called ‘aje’ (witch) and, if angered, are believed to have the capacity to destroy individuals or entire communities. The masquerade provides an opportunity for "our mothers" to be placated or pampered so that they do not use their destructive powers against the Yoruba people, instead encouraging rain and fertile soil.
Dimensions:
Height (at front): 31 cm or 12 1/4 inches
Length: 35 cm or 13 3/4 inches
Width: 19 cm or 7 1/2 inches
Weight: 990 grams
Condition:
In good antique condition, with expected wear to the pigments. Historic repair to the rear of the pointed cap, secured with iron nails, and further general wear. Please see the images provided which complement this description.
A Nigerian Gelede masquerade wood mask with colored pigments from the Yoruba people, dating to the first half of the 20th Century.
The mask is carved from wood with chevron pointed cap painted light blue, the face with pierced blue eyes and black scarification on a white ground. The mask with four holes to each side to allow it to be worn.
The previous owner's label is attached to the inside.
Provenance:
Purchased Christie's, 22 July 1981, Lot 117, thereafter with a private London collection. Copy of Christie's catalogue page included.
Background:
These masks are worn by men in elaborate masquerade performances known as ‘Gelede’, taking place each year between March and May, at the beginning of a new agricultural season.
The purpose is to pay tribute to the special power of women, both elders and ancestors, who are known affectionately as "our mothers." Women can use a spiritual life force, ‘ase’, which can be creative or destructive.
When these destructive powers are used women are called ‘aje’ (witch) and, if angered, are believed to have the capacity to destroy individuals or entire communities. The masquerade provides an opportunity for "our mothers" to be placated or pampered so that they do not use their destructive powers against the Yoruba people, instead encouraging rain and fertile soil.
Dimensions:
Height (at front): 31 cm or 12 1/4 inches
Length: 35 cm or 13 3/4 inches
Width: 19 cm or 7 1/2 inches
Weight: 990 grams
Condition:
In good antique condition, with expected wear to the pigments. Historic repair to the rear of the pointed cap, secured with iron nails, and further general wear. Please see the images provided which complement this description.
