Gelede Mask - Yoruba People, Nigeria

This has some old damage, and has been put on sale as is, however it is was collected in this state back in 1954, and is ex. Marilyn Kantor and Robert Ruark (NYC). Robert was a noted author who wrote about Africa, and even had a book called Africa.

The Gelede association is located in southwest Yoruba land. The Gelede cults main function is the neutralization of the ill effects of witchcraft upon the community.
The songs and dances honor & placate our mothers ‘awon iya wa’ who are believed to possess powers of sorcery. The primordial mother obtained power, ashe, from the creator god olodumare. Since that time the special power has been passed down through all women.
The mask represents the female spirit and is worn by a male performer for protection. It is also used to entertain & enlighten the community. Gelede's ritual aim is to channel this power in a favorable direction to society.

Height: 11 ½"" x Width: 8" x Depth" 13 3/4"