African Arts Gallery

Ex-french collection of tribal art.
In Nigeria, African gelede masks are performed during the celebratory dances of the Gelede religious society, and at the funerals of its followers. In the regions of Nigeria bordering Benin and in Benin itself, these masks are sometimes accessorized with a belly mask, like this small-sized female example. Abraded matte patina.
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.