Mask "gelede" · Nigeria, Yoruba · ID: 3032620
Description
wood, polychrome paint, disc-shaped superstructure carved with an equestrian figure accompanied by four standing figures, rep. (base), min. dam., cracks, slight traces of abrasion;
“gelede” is a cult in the southwestern Yorubaland which implores the fertility of the earth and the well-being of men. Annual celebrations are marked by elaborate dance performances, paired male and female masks worn by men who appear in rich textile costumes complete with wooden breasts.
The object Mask “gelede” with the object ID 3032620 was last part of the auction 69th tribal art auction at June 2, 2012 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 363.
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Comparing literature
Lawal, Babatunde, The Gèlèdé Spectacle, Seattle, London 1996, ill. 7.48