Elaborate Yoruba Gelede helmet, horse and other animals entwined. CoA included

Description

I purchased this at auction. It came with a letter of authenticity, which is included in the auction. You can read the attachment, but I will quote some highlight here:
“Tribe: Touba
Origin: Nigeria
Age:c. 19
th
-20
th
Century
Value: 00
This type of mask headdress is worn by men in celebration masquerade performances known as “Gelede. The ritual talks place each year between march and May, at the beginning of a new agricultural season. The purpose of the performance is to pay tribute to the special power of Women, both elders and ancestors…
…This Gelede headdress consists of two parts, a lower mask and an upper superstructure. The lower mask depicts a woman’s face, its composure expressing the qualities of calmness , patience, and “coolness” desired I women. The static expression and simplicity of this portion of the headdress contrasts with the vitality and diversity of the upper half of the headdress. The design of the superstructure is intended to placate the mothers by displaying their inner powers for all to see, thus pleasing them and ensuring the well-being of the community.
The birds signify the dangerous nocturnal powers of women who act as witches. The birds also represent the “messenger of the mothers” while the snakes symbolize the positive feminine qualities of patience and coolness. A snake cautions vigilance. The horse symbolizes wealth and the leopard represents power…”
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Conway of Asia, Carmel CA 93921
Beyond the profound cultural significance of this mask, I was just so drawn to the amazing, whimsical animals. The big eyes of the polka dot horse, the colorful birds – it really is just so charming and bright.
All my auctions are starting at .99 and no reserve. I’m open to reasonable offers. I have spent a great deal of money on my collection over the years, will see if I break even.
I am a private collector, and have acquired too much, my loss is your gain. I am not a professional in the tribal art field, so all items are sold “in the style of” per eBay policies.
I am using the eBay shipping calculator. Any charge over actual cost will be returned to the buyer. I am not responsible for any fees, duties or import tax imposed by your home country.