Vintage Yoruba Gelede Helmet Mask Multi Figure Superstructure Carved Wood 22"

Description

View Vintage Yoruba Gelede Helmet Mask Multi Figure Superstructure Carved Wood 22" with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. Culture: African – Yoruba (Nigeria). Item specifics: Culture: African – Yoruba (Nigeria) Type: Large Gelede society helmet mask with complex superstructure Style: Authentic old village-used Gelede with multiple figures and animals Material: Carved hardwood with original polychrome pigment (red, black, white, yellow, blue), heavy ritual patina Dimensions: 22 × 11 × 9.5 in (56 × 28 × 24 cm) – impressive height and presence Condition: Excellent old used – thick encrusted ritual patina, extensive pigment wear and loss, stable age cracks, minor erosion and small losses to figures, completely authentic with no repairs Description A spectacular and rare old Yoruba Gelede helmet mask from Nigeria – crowned with an extraordinary multi-figure superstructure that makes it one of the most elaborate examples to appear on the market. Gelede masquerades honor the spiritual power of women and mothers. This large helmet features a central serene face with half-closed eyes, flanked by carved figures and animals on a circular platform – a classic representation of community, fertility, and social commentary. Key features: Tall superstructure with three standing figures (two human, one animal) around a central post Detailed carving of animals (birds/snakes) and geometric patterns on the platform Beautifully weathered polychrome in red, black, white, yellow, and blue Deep ritual patina from decades of outdoor performances and handling Substantial size with commanding presence The surface shows heavy encrustation and pigment loss prized by collectors as proof of long-term ceremonial use. Stable cracks and minor losses to the figures are entirely consistent with age and active life. Large, multi-figure Gelede helmets of this complexity and condition are extremely rare in private hands – most comparable pieces reside in major museums or advanced collections. A genuine, museum-caliber masterpiece with tremendous visual impact – an outstanding centerpiece for any serious collection of Yoruba or West African masquerade art. Important note: The wooden display stand shown in the photos is for illustration only and is NOT included in the sale. Condition: Used. Category: Collectibles › Cultures & Ethnicities › African › 1900-Now › Figures & Sculptures.

Provenance

Ownership History Not Available

Materials sourced from

Nigeria

Country of Origin

Nigeria

Culture

Yoruba

Handmade

Yes