Anthropomorphic face mask · D. R. Congo, Bwaka · ID: 3039899
Hans Dietrich Rielau, Hösbach, Germany
Description
wood, light brown patina, black paint, kaolin, see holes of irregular form, framing of eyes and tribal marks deeply notched, slightly dam. (mouth), traces of insect caused damage, abrasion of paint;
the Bwaka have used masks for initiation- and circumcision rituals, called “gaza”. Some sources speak of a “dagara” mask that is worn by the man who is charged with the instruction and circumcision of the initiates, during a festival which follows the young mens period of seclusion. Other sources relate that the initiates themselves wear a “moginda” mask.
The object Anthropomorphic face mask with the object ID 3039899 was last part of the auction 82nd Tribal Art Auction at February 27, 2016 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house. The object with the lot number 177 achieved a sales price of EUR 400.
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