Face mask "minyangi"
D. R. Congo, Pende Kasai, Pende (East)
Vendu
1 000 €
Provenance
Jean-Pierre Lepage, Brussels, Belgium (1978)Eduard Hess, Basel, Switzerland
Taille
H: 23,5 cm
H: 9.3 inch
Description
wood, painted in red, darkened kaolin, arching brows, nose bridge and triangular tattoos accentuated with kaolin, slightly dam., missing parts through insect caused damage (above all backside);
present mask type is completed by an abundant grass fibre beard and feather ornaments. According to F. Neyt the medicine man “nganga” orders the masquerade of the “minyangi” masks in case of virulent illnesses or repeated abortion. It is worn by woman from the chiefs house.