Yoruba Gelede Mask

Gelede Yoruba Anago mask, wood and mineral polychromy, dry patina. This helmet mask danced during the Gèlèdé daytime ceremonies, dedicated to the cult of Mothers and witches so that they bring fertility and social cohesion to the community. Unlike the nighttime ceremonies focused on the religious aspect, the daytime ceremonies are an open book on the life of the community. The masks illustrate scenes from everyday life, fables and morals. This mask represents a scene of maternity in front of a container, perhaps a washhouse. The plastic design is astonishing, we only see the child's head behind the mother's back. The mask has a beautiful patina of use. It is authentic and has no restoration. First half of the 20th century. Provenance: Ex-collection Jean Luc and Jeanine Fournier, ex-gallery J. Visser (Brussels). Listed in Guy Van Rijn's African Archives database under reference ao-0110343-001.