Mask · D. R. Congo, Bwaka · ID: 3035715
sold
EUR 3,000
Provenance
Hans Hess, Basel, Switzerland (1964)Eduard Hess, Oberwil, Switzerland
Size
H: 26 cm
H: 10.2 inch
Description
wood, partly encrusted brown patina, striking scarification marks in the area of forehead, nose and temples, the upper lip adorned with red glass beads, pierced around the rim, missing parts through insect caused damage, traces of abrasion;
Bwaka masks are used during circumcision rites when the initiates return to the village, but they are worn by members of an anti-witchcraft society as well.
Comparing literature
Felix, Marc L., 100 Peoples of Zaire and their Sculpture, Brussels 1987, p. 121