Yoruba helmet mask, Nigeria, c. 1980

Yoruba art is known for its masks, “Gelede”, used for the dances of secret societies. They are based on the same principle: a mask, helmet type, in the shape of a human face and a scene carved on the top of the mask, related to a human activity. They are used in dances dedicated to older women. The “Gelede” mask festivals restore or create social harmony in their society. They are preceded by large night ceremonies “Efe”, during which they can express themselves by speaking and singing freely. Height: 36 cm Reproduced: Catalogue “Africa Babel: the Art of a Continent”, p.- 155 ctro
 
Exhibitions:
2022-2024 Island of Fuerteventura “Art Africa: Ancestral Light”. Lighthouse of the Entallada. Cabildo of Fuerteventura.
2021-2022 Panama City. Government of Panama. “Art Africa: the spirit of the ancestors”. Ministry of Culture Headquarters. Casco Viejo.
2019-2020 Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Caja Canarias Foundation. “Africa-Babel: the art of a Continent”. Headquarters Plaza Patriotismo.
2013-2015 Museum of Art of Africa and Oceania (Madao). La Granja de San Ildefonso, Segovia.
2005 “Black Africa”, Leather Museum.
2004 “Black Africa”. Caixa Laietana Foundation, Barcelona. Main exhibition hall