Vintage Yoruba Gelede Mask Head Carved Wood Nigeria African Tribal Art

Description

View Vintage Yoruba Gelede Mask Head Carved Wood Nigeria African Tribal Art with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. This artifact is a significant ethnographic find, embodying the rich visual and spiritual culture of the Yoruba Gelede society. This is a rare opportunity to acquire a compelling and authentic piece ofAfrican ritual art —a genuineGelede Mask Head. A Rare and Authentic Ritual Sculpture from Nigeria/Benin (West Africa) This is a rare opportunity to acquire a compelling and authentic piece of  African ritual art —a genuine  Gelede Mask Head . Carved by the  Yoruba people  of Nigeria or Benin, this mask is celebrated for its expression of idealized femininity and spiritual power. Its age, deep patina, and classic design make it an exceptional collector's item. ITEM: OLD Yoruba  Gelede Mask Head  (Mid-20th Century or Earlier) This visually striking ritual object is firmly attributed to the  Yoruba people  of  West Africa  (Nigeria/Benin). The mask head measures approximately  10 inches tall ,  9 inches wide , and  6 inches deep . It is carved from dense, lightweight wood and displays a unique combination of dark and reddish-brown pigments. The mask is a classic representation of the  Gelede tradition , which honors the power of women (Iya Nla) and the spiritual energy they command: Tiered Coiffure/Headdress:  The head is crowned by a massive,  tiered, and segmented coiffure  or headdress, carved in dark pigment. This elaborate element symbolizes status, fashion, and the complexity of female power. Facial Features:  The face is smoothly carved and painted with a deep  reddish-brown pigment . Features include large, deeply carved, hollowed eyes, a small mouth, and subtle incised lines that may represent traditional scarification marks (notable for their patina). The serene, idealized expression is typical of the feminine beauty celebrated in Gelede performances. Ritual Use:  Gelede masks are worn atop the head during spectacular nocturnal and daytime ceremonies to appease the powerful spiritual forces, particularly the  Mothers (Aje) , ensuring fertility, prosperity, and harmony for the community. Patina and Condition:  The contrasting pigments show significant wear and an aged patina, indicating use in ceremonies. The sturdy carving and heavy patina confirm its age and authenticity. Please note: The black display stand shown in the photos is NOT included in this sale. This sale is for the carved wooden mask head only. Key Investment Highlights This artifact is a significant ethnographic find, embodying the rich visual and spiritual culture of the Yoruba Gelede society. The large, dominant headdress, the beautifully aged pigments, and the expressive face make this a dramatic, complete, and historically resonant masterpiece of African ritual art. Condition: Used. Category: Collectibles › Cultures & Ethnicities › African › 1900-Now › Figures & Sculptures.

Country of Origin

Nigeria

Provenance

Ownership History Not Available

Culture

Yoruba

Handmade

Yes