Category:Yoruba Gelede masks

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Gelede is an annual festival honouring “our mothers”, not so much for their motherhood, but as female elders. It takes place among the Yoruba people of south-west Nigeria and neighbouring southeast Benin.

The performances are given by men, wearing masks that feature sculpted images on it. These can be of animals and people or sewing machines and drums. The mask is one of a pair worn together by men to amuse, please and placate the mothers who are considered very powerful, and whom may use their powers for good or destructive purposes. The Gelede ceremony involves carefully choreographed dance, singing and music, and especially drumming.

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