Deformation mask "mbangu" · D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3036696
sold
EUR 1,200
Size
H: 28 cm
H: 11.0 inch
Description
wood, matt patina, black and white pigment, consisting of two asymmetrical sides of the face with open worked eyes and mouth, collection label “Krankheits-Maske Pende Zaire 28 x 18 cm Nr. 584” at the back, pierced around the rim, min. dam., missing parts (back), traces of abrasion;
this mask is a depiction of a highly regarded hunter who has been stricken with facial paralysis. In performance, the “mbangu” mask is danced with a whole cast of character types, from clown to sorcerer and prostitute. The black and white painting refers to the scars of someone who fell into fire due to epilepsy or some medical condition.
Comparing literature
Herreman, Frank, To cure and protect, New York 1999, p. 20 f.