Face mask · Gabon, Vuvi · ID: 3032868
Loudmer, Paris, 9 décembre 1989, lot 262
Tajan, Paris 6, décembre 1995, lot 74
Alain de Monbrison, Paris, France
Christie´s Paris, 1 December 2010, Lot 55
Yann Ferrandin, Paris, France
French Private Collection
Description
wood, whitened with a thick layer of kaolin, accents in red pigment, relatively flat, with ornate and highly arched brows, tiara-like coiffure and diamond-shaped mouth, narrow slit eyes, the nose striking short, the facial features slightly shifted to the right, the chin accentuated by dark brown patina, slightly dam., paint rubbed off, traces of insect caused damage, water spots, on metal base;
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. The drilled holes around the masks rim served for attachment of plant fibres, which covered the dancers body together with various fabric in form of an abundant costume. 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 f.