Large mask with a face with rectangular eyes, a slender nose streaked with horizontal notches that rise and run across the forehead. The mouth is ajar and reveals teeth cut into points.
The hair is marked with white lines. The two eyes are surrounded by a red band with white dots circled in white. The rest of the face is decorated with white stars.
This type of mask is called Nsembu. They come out at night and are only visible to initiates. It is a diviner's mask which is used mainly on the death of a member of the brotherhood. It can also be used for solemn divination sessions or initiation rites.
Kumu people (Bakumu), Bafwamboli region, Democratic Republic of Congo
Wood, pigments
H: 44 cm
First half of the 20th century.
Provenance: - ex Belgian private collection
- Collected in situ by Lucien DESMARE (1905-1961)
Sold with its base
Ref: UDFQPOWJUA
| Ethnic group | Komo - Kumu |
| Style | Tribal Art (African Masks of Tribal Art Style) |
| Period | 20th century (African Masks 20th century) |
| Artist | kumu |
| Height (cm) | 44 |
| Materials | Wood |
| Shipping Time | Ready to ship in 4-7 Business Days |
| Location | 69620, Ternand, France |
4 commitments to buy with confidence
English
Français 
Italiano 
Deutsch 
