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Descripción : A Gelede society headdress. Nigeria, Yoruba. First half 20th century.Approx. 12 1/2h x 13w x 13d. Provenance: Inventory and Collection from the Estate of Merton D. Simpson. Catalog Notes: Masks like this are worn by men in elaborate masquerade performances known as Gelede. 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, ase, 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. The masks are worn at an angle on the top of the head, with pairs of men wearing similar masks. The masquerade has an elaborate and bulky costume, emphasizing the breasts and buttocks of the woman it represents, showing the desired fatness of a beautiful and graceful woman. The identity of the wearer is not secret, he can be seen through the transparent cloth worn over the face, and he can unmask in public. The name of the dancer may be given in the song which accompanies his act, making him the subject of praise or criticism, depending on the skill and rhythm of his performance. Drumming and singing, essential features of the performance, accompany the strictly choreographed dance. The harmony and balance demonstrated by good dancers shape a metaphor for social perfection, where people help one another, share their wealth and talents, and enjoy the life they have been given. The Gelede headdress often consists of two parts, a lower mask and an upper superstructure. The lower mask depicts a woman's face, its composure expressing the qualities of calmness, patience, and coolness desired in women. The static expression and simplicity of this portion of the headdress contrasts with vitality and diversity of the superstructure. The design of the superstructure is intended to placate the mothers by displaying their inner powers for all to see, thus pleasing them and ensuring the well-being of the community. See Rand African Art, Yoruba Gelede headdress with 3 birds - probably pigeons.
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