Yoruba Gelede society headdress, 20th c

gelede society headdress yoruba worn elaborate powers women known masks masquerade people desired face consists portion contrasts birds 20th like mothers spiritual lower mask performance affectionately life destructive performances power elders destructively called angle cloth upper tribute used opportunity placated given rhythm features accompany superstructure placate displaying inner pleasing african nigera ancestors force provides instead similar bulky woman showing fatness perfection help enjoy depicts woman's composure coolness diversity intended notes purpose creative pampered buttocks represents graceful unmask song parts collection place year march beginning special witch angered believed capacity destroy individuals encourage rain head pairs wearing costume emphasizing breasts beautiful secret seen transparent accompanies making subject praise criticism depending skill essential strictly demonstrated good dancers shape metaphor social share wealth talents expressing qualities calmness patience simplicity vitality design ensuring inventory estate takes agricultural entire fertile wearer dancer singing choreographed balance expression well-being probably century provenance merton catalog ritual season communities soil identity public drumming dance harmony static community rand pigeons 11"d simpson