Mask "panya ngombe"

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Description

wood, matt patina, polychrome paint, striking projecting ears and broad eye slits, incised diamond-shaped patterns, accentuated by paint, pierced around the rim, min. dam., small missing parts, fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
the “panya ngombe” mask type refers to the wild cow or buffalo, symbol of prestige and high rank. In shape of reliefs they decorate the lintels of dignitaries houses, indicating that its owner is of highest rank. The “panya ngombe” masks were used in context of circumcision rites.

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Comparing literature

Herreman, Frank & Constantijn Petridis (ed.), Face of the Spirits, Tervuren 1993, p. 77

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