Mask ·  R. D. Congo, Bwaka · ID: 3039697

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, teeth inset with wooden splinters, linear incised lines dividing the facial plane in compartments which are painted in black with dotted and striped pattern, slightly dam., abrasion of paint;
the Bwaka used masks for initiation and circumcision rites called “gaza”. Some sources speak of a “dagara” mask that is worn by the man who is charged with the instruction and circumcision of the initiates, during a festival which follows the young mens period of seclusion. Other sources relate that the initiates themselves wear a “moginda” mask to amuse themselves, as well as to scare the girls during the initiates exodus from their place of seclusion.