Egungun Masquerades/CostumesYoruba Peoples of Nigeria

Egungun MasqurradesEgungun costume are made of appliquéd

panels with motifs derives from Yoruba, Islamic, and European traditions. The wearer can see through the net face panel, which is adorned

with cowrie shells, beads, and coins. When performing an

acrobatic dance, he spins rapidly so the fabric panels fly out, revealing the colorful layers of

the costume.

The valuable fabrics and symbols of wealth such as cowrie shells, sequins,

and beads are outward signs of the respect due to the ancestor. Sometimes

the inscription “AYELABOLA” on the back of the costume is visible and expresses

profound regard for the moral and ethical stature of the ancestor by referring to the primordial deity, Olá, who embodies these

values.

Yoruba Textile Egungun Masqueraders

Yoruba Egugun Masqueraders