Mask "muyombo" · D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3041828
Belgian Private Collection, Antwerp
Description
wood, dark brown patina, red and white pigment, plug-like projection, chin extension framed by grass fibre tufts, handwritten collection number “FX971075” on the backside, slightly dam., abrasion of paint, base;
the mask was worn horizontally on the head. The chin extension apparently represents the ancestral beard. It is called “mwevu” and it is meant as a symbol for authority and wisdom of the ancestors. This mask type was used at initiation and circumcision rites for young boys and in ceremonies conducted in order to achieve good luck in hunting or efficient harvest. The “muyombo” masks should guarantee fertility and welfare of the community.
The object Mask “muyombo” with the object ID 3041828 was last part of the auction 85th Tribal Art Auction at March 4, 2017 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 420.
You can find more Masks and other popular object types on our related topic pages. You may also be interested in our page on African art.