Mask

Description

light wood, greyish brown patina, kaolin, dotted painting, framed by grass fibre tufts, in the chin area applied in two layers, slightly dam., abrasion of paint (nose);
Ituri masks were made of the fresh wood of the “ntondo” or “agbagba” tree, specially felled for this purpose. Prayers are said and certain taboos observed by carvers during their work. With the sculpting finished, the mask is painted by an “ishumi”. The ritualist recites sacred formulas and makes offerings while carrying out his work. Later the vegetal fiber fringe is attached to the mask by another specialist, usually the herbalist (who is also a healer).