Zemanek-Münster

Face mask "minyangi"

D. R. Congo, Pende Kasai, Pende (East)
sold EUR 1,000
Provenance
Jean-Pierre Lepage, Brussels, Belgium (1978)
Eduard Hess, Basel, Switzerland
Size
H: 23,5 cm
H: 9.3 inch

Description

wood, painted in red, darkened kaolin, arching brows, nose bridge and triangular tattoos accentuated with kaolin, slightly dam., missing parts through insect caused damage (above all backside);
present mask type is completed by an abundant grass fibre beard and feather ornaments. According to F. Neyt the medicine man “nganga” orders the masquerade of the “minyangi” masks in case of virulent illnesses or repeated abortion. It is worn by woman from the chiefs house.


Comparing literature

Sousberghe, L., L' Art Pende, o.O. 1958, ill. 72 f.

Subscribe to our newsletter

Join over 10,000 tribal art collectors. Don't miss out on upcoming news and auctions.

Subscribe today