Masque Gelede Yoruba (avec motif d'oiseau et serpent enroulé)

Worn in Gelede masquerades, which honor the spiritual power and mystical wisdom of elder women, female ancestors, and mothers (known as Iyami, "Our Mothers"). The elaborate superstructure acts as a proverbial drama: the bird symbolizes the night-flying spiritual authority and vision of the mothers, while the coiled serpent represents primordial earth power, transformation, and secret wisdom. Together, they represent the harmony and balance between opposing spiritual forces.

A vivid example of Yoruba polychrome woodcarving. The mask combines a serene human face—featuring wide almond eyes, full dark lips, and subtle cheek scarifications—with a dramatic, multi-tiered animal motif stacked above the head. The deep earth-red pigments on the face contrast beautifully with the dark, textured coils of the snake and the perched bird at the apex.