Helmet mask "gelede"

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Description

wood, reddish brown patina, remains of black paint, kaolin, striking narrow face with regular facial features, coiffure with fine incisions widely projecting to the back, drilled see holes, slightly dam., traces of insect caused damage (back of the head, rim backside), cracks, metal base;
“gelede” festivals are held at the arrival of the early spring rains and are performed in honour of “our mothers”, “awon iya wa”. The concept of “our mothers” refers to the inner, secret power of women in its creative and destructive aspects. It is woman’s power to give birth, and to sustain the patrilineage.

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Comparing literature

Fagaly, William, Ancestors of Congo Square, New Orleans 2011, p. 176

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Publications

Eisenhofer, Stefan (Hg.), Kulte, Künstler, Könige in Afrika, Linz 1997, p. 249, ill. III/7.3

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Exhibition

"Kulte, Künster, Könige in Afrika - Tradition und Moderne in Südnigeria, OÖ. Landesmuseum Linz, 1997

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