Polychrome helmet mask - Wood, paint. - GELEDE - YORUBA - Nigeria
Among the Yoruba, the Gelede helm masks are made according to the same principle: a face and a more or less complex scene which overhangs the top of the mask. These are used in the context of masquerades dedicated to women. In order to ward off the harmful power of witchcraft of which they are sometimes accused, these cathartic ceremonies are aimed at appeasing conflicts through the hands of the ancestors. This very figurative yellow painted mask is surmounted by a panther and two human heads on the sides. Very heavy hardwood. Dry patina of use.
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Among the Yoruba, the Gelede helm masks are made according to the same principle: a face and a more or less complex scene which overhangs the top of the mask. These are used in the context of masquerades dedicated to women. In order to ward off the harmful power of witchcraft of which they are sometimes accused, these cathartic ceremonies are aimed at appeasing conflicts through the hands of the ancestors. This very figurative yellow painted mask is surmounted by a panther and two human heads on the sides. Very heavy hardwood. Dry patina of use.
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