Yoruba people, Nigeria

23 inches, painted wood

This fabulous mask was part of an ethnographic collection assembled by the late F.P. Macleod-Selkirk and his father. The collection was begun in 1900 and many of the pieces date to the 19th Century. Though I believe this is a mid-20th century piece, it is quite special... and authentic. There is some damage, but it is solid and the painted surface is still bright. Masks like this are worn by men in elaborate masquerade performances known as "Gelede" in Nigeria. Most of the masks are shaped like helmets and fit completly over the head. This one is different.

This ritual takes place each year between March and May, at the beginning of a new agricultural season. The purpose of the performance is to pay tribute to the special power of women, both elders and ancestors, who are known affectionately as our mothers. Women can use a spiritual life force, which can be creative or destructive. When these powers are used destructively, women are called aje (witch), and, if angered, are believed to have the capacity to destroy individuals or entire communities. The masquerade provides an opportunity for our mothers to be placated or pampered so that they do not use their destructive powers against the Yoruba people; instead they encourage rain and fertile soil.