Mask - Wood - Gelede - Yoruba - Nigeria - 54 cm

An authentic Yoruba helmet mask. The Yoruba in southwest Nigeria and in the neighboring state of Benin (formerly Dahomey) have the 'Gelede cult'. Women, mothers, and fertility in general are worshiped in this cult. In large annual processions, male dancers dance in pairs with such masks and in colorful costumes. These 'Gelede masks' are worn on top of the head. The art of the Yoruba tribe represents one of the pillars of classical African art. Provenance: Owen Hargreaves / Tribalspace, London