Anthropomorphic face mask · D. R. Congo, Bwaka · ID: 3039899
sold
EUR 400
Provenance
Henning Schmejkal, Holle, Germany (1979)Hans Dietrich Rielau, Hösbach, Germany
Size
H: 41 cm
H: 16.1 inch
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.