Anthropomorphic face mask ·  Gabon, Vuvi, northern Sango · ID: 3039084

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, red, white and black pigment, ornamentally designed face: high arching eyebrows corresponding with the deepened triangular compartment at the chin, the mouth diamond-shaped, narrow slit, just like the eyes which are very close to each other, the diadem-like coiffure arching over the forehead, old collection label and handwritten collection number “F11” on the backside, light scorch marks there as well, slightly dam. (nose), paint chipped off, traces of abrasion/usage backside at the rim;
only little is known about the usage of masks in Central Gabon. Each mask represents the spirit of “moghondzi” and bares a special name, referring to him. Their night-time performance is announced by the sound of drums. The ceremonial master performing a special song, commemorating the individual traits of the spirit. After usage, the masks were kept in special huts, together with further ritual items.

Comparing literature

Hahner-Herzog, Iris, Das Zweite Gesicht, Genf, München, New York 1997, ill. 74 Siroto, Leon, East of the Atlantic West of the Congo, San Francisco 1995, p. 36