Deformation mask "mbuya ya mbangu" ·  D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3052357

Description

wood, pigments, plant fibre, handwritten collection label “263”, paint abrasion

The mask represents a face distorted by a paralysis of the facial nerve.

The Pende believe that the person in question is a victim of sorcery, bewitched by a rival who, out of jealousy, has inflicted a disease or deformity on him.

Comparing literature

Herreman, Frank, To cure and protect, New York 1999, p. 20 f., 9-11