Mask ·  D. R. Congo, Bwaka · ID: 3037685

Description

wood, middle and darkbrown patina, vertical ridge over the forehead and nose which is characteristic for masks from the Ubangi area, drilled hole for labret, slightly dam., minor missing parts (chinbeard, rim backside), scratches and abrasion of paint, metal base;
the ethnic situation of the Ubangi area is extremely complex. Although most Ubangi masks are ascribed to the Bwaka (=Ngbaka) one does not know with certainty if all these were indeed made by them. Even the usage of the masks is unclear.
According to research of H. Burssens, the Bwaka have used masks within the scope of the initiation and circumcision rituals, called “gaza”. Some sources speak of a “dagara” mask that is worn by the man who is charged with the instruction and circumcision of the intiates, during a festival which follows the young mens period of seclusion. Other sources relate that the initates themselves wear a “moginda” mask to amuse themselves, as well as to scare the girls during the initiates exodus from their place of seclusion. Finally, the “discipline master” would also be adorned with a mask, inside the enclosure where the initiation itself takes place. All in all, masks do not occupy a fundamental place in the social and religious life of the Bwaka.

Comparing literature

Herreman, Frank & Constantijn Petridis (ed.), Face of the Spirits, Tervuren 1993, p. 224 ff.