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Dimitri André

Gelede mask of the Yoruba people from Nigeria. Ex. Private Collector, Belgium. Ex. Private Collection, Paris. The previous owner's name is available upon request.

Gelede masks are elaborate, colorful headpieces used in the Gelede festival, primarily in southwestern Nigeria. These masks are typically carved from wood and painted, featuring human faces with animals or abstract symbols on top. They are worn by male performers during dances that celebrate and honor women, particularly their roles as mothers, leaders, and spiritual beings. The purpose of the Gelede masks is to promote social harmony, fertility, and prosperity, and to appease "awon iya wa" (our mothers), a reference to both human and divine female forces in Yoruba cosmology.

The Yoruba people are one of the largest ethnic groups in West Africa, primarily located in southwestern Nigeria, with communities in Benin, Togo, and the diaspora. Known for their rich cultural heritage, they have a deep history of urbanization, with ancient cities like Ife and Oyo. The Yoruba are renowned for their sophisticated art, including bronze and terracotta sculptures, vibrant festivals, and traditional music. They also have a complex religious system, centered around Orisha worship and the Ifa divination system, which has influenced global Afro-Caribbean religions like Santería and Candomblé.

Tribal masks

Mask - Gelede - Yoruba - Nigeria

African & Tribal Art

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Size

S (10–40 cm)

M (40–80 cm)

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Country of origin

DR Congo

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Africa

Tanzania

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Material

Wood

Bronze

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Stone

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Gender

Unisex

Condition

Good condition

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Period

Late 20th century

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2020+

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1980-1990

1990-2000

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Subject

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Style

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Technique

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Signature

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Edition

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Language

French

English

Colour

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African & Tribal Art

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Mask - Gelede - Yoruba - Nigeria

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