Mask

Description

wood, remains of polychrome paint, partly shiny patina, of broad form with heart-shaped deepened facial plane, framed by c-shaped ears, pierced around the rim, min. dam., small missing parts, fine cracks, traces of abrasion, 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 initiates, during a festival which follows the young mens period of seclusion. Other sources relate that the initiates 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.