About this artwork
This dynamic mask of the gelede type depicts two hunters wrestling with a pangolin (or scaly anteater), representing the struggle between civilization and nature, human intelligence and animal force. The figures are shown grabbing the mammal by its back legs but also seem to be losing their balance and giving the pangolin a chance to escape. The dramatic tension of this mask’s upper section presents a sharp contrast to the serene human face below.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 137
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Yoruba
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Artists
- Fagbite Asamu , Falola Edun
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Title
- Headdress (Igi Gelede)
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Places
- Nigeria (Object made in), Africa (Object made in)
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Date
- 1900-1950
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Medium
- Wood and pigment
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Dimensions
- 40 × 36.8 × 48.9 cm (15 3/4 × 14 1/2 × 19 1/4 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Neal Ball
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Reference Number
- 2008.176
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.