Rare pig mask "ngulu" · D. R. Congo, Chokwe · ID: 3040545
not available anymore
Size
H: 29 cm
H: 11.4 inch
Description
wood, brown patina, remains of black paint, of slender form with open mouth, bonnet made from rattan, plant fibre and cloth on the back, min. dam., fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
the dancer generally performs on all fours, imitating the pig’s behaviour, poking about with its snout, scratching itself and trampling around clumsily.
The dance masks are used by itinerant dancers, who keep them in a basket. After the performance, the dancers receive gifts in return for the magical strength which they have dispensed to the community.
Comparing literature
Bastin, Marie-Louise, La sculpture Tshokwe, Gossau 1982, p. 86 f.