African Arts Gallery

Gelede mask depicting a face surmounted by a horseman on his mount. In Nigeria, also in Benin, this type of African mask is used during the joyful dances of the Gelede society, and on the occasion of the funerals of its followers. These masks often illustrate proverbs and are produced in pairs, each with a specific name. Grainy matte patina, small accidents.
The Gelede country in Nigeria pays homage to mothers, especially the oldest among them, whose powers are said to be comparable to those of the Yoruba gods, or orisa, and ancestors, osi and who can be used for the benefit but also for the misfortune of society. In the latter case these women are called aje. The masked ceremonies, through performances using masks, costumes and dances, are meant to urge mothers to use their extraordinary qualities for a peaceful and constructive purpose, for the good of society.