Gelede Female Torso Mask

Worn by male masqueraders of the Gelede society, torso masks emphasize female attributes of beauty, fertility and maternity, all of which allude to the inner power of women. The carved snake refers to older women that are said to be able to transform themselves into snakes.

The AMAM's African collection has an important focus on works from Western Africa, particularly those made by the Yoruba people. Executed in a wide range of media-wood, copper alloy, beads, and cowry shells-these objects are used to establish contact between the human world and the spirit world. In addition to this impressive life-size Gelede torso mask that would be worn by a male masquerader, the AMAM collection also includes objects connected with Ifa, the god of divination. Among these are an Ifa Priest's bag, a diviner's satchel, and a divination tray and tapper, all of which support the teaching of religion, history, and culture of West Africa, an area that is particularly strong in Oberlin's curriculum.