Mask "kindombolo" ·  D. R. Congo, Pende, East · ID: 3033341

Description

wood, red pigment, blackish brown paint, remains of kaolin, the flat facial plane coated with three rows of drilled holes, flanking a bold nose, a projecting beard underneath, typical “shaved” hairline, slightly dam., on base;
the drilled holes symbolize scars caused by smallpox. “Kindombolo’s” scars evoke his character since many argue that survivors of smallpox lose all respect for physical danger or social censure. Called “cruel” because he carries a whip, “kindombolo” maintains order on the dance floor but delights in outlandish and vulgar surprises.

The object Mask “kindombolo” with the object ID 3033341 was last part of the auction 70th tribal art auction at September 8, 2012 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 453.

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Comparing literature

Strother, Z.S., Pende, Mailand 2008, ill. 2