Rare 19th C. African DR Congo Mbagani Wood Ritual Mask
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Description
**Originally Listed At $600**
Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mbagani (Babindji) culture, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A large wood ceremonial mask with characteristic large discoidal eye sockets highlighted in white kaolin with narrow slitted coffee bean shaped eyelids. The domed forehead is capped by a pointed crest, and the chin also comes to a point, creating a sense of balance and symmetry. This mask was probably used in circumcision or society initiation rites and possibly for healing. This is one of the rarer masks from Sub Sahara Africa carved by the Mbagani people, a subgroup of Lulua / Luba culture, and highly influenced by neighboring cultures (Chokwe, Kuba). Traditionally they lived in small chiefdoms subsisting on farming, hunting, and are known for their wood carvings and woven/embroidered textiles, their population is estimated at 35,000. Size: 7.75" L x 5" W x 14.5" H (19.7 cm x 12.7 cm x 36.8 cm); 17.5" H (44.4 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Richard S. Ravenal collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#177806
Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mbagani (Babindji) culture, ca. 19th to 20th century CE. A large wood ceremonial mask with characteristic large discoidal eye sockets highlighted in white kaolin with narrow slitted coffee bean shaped eyelids. The domed forehead is capped by a pointed crest, and the chin also comes to a point, creating a sense of balance and symmetry. This mask was probably used in circumcision or society initiation rites and possibly for healing. This is one of the rarer masks from Sub Sahara Africa carved by the Mbagani people, a subgroup of Lulua / Luba culture, and highly influenced by neighboring cultures (Chokwe, Kuba). Traditionally they lived in small chiefdoms subsisting on farming, hunting, and are known for their wood carvings and woven/embroidered textiles, their population is estimated at 35,000. Size: 7.75" L x 5" W x 14.5" H (19.7 cm x 12.7 cm x 36.8 cm); 17.5" H (44.4 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Richard S. Ravenal collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#177806
Condition
Stable fissure on verso rim near crest and hairline pressure cracks on face. Nicks and chips to peripheries and surface abrasions, otherwise intact with nice patina.
Buyer's Premium
- 26.5%
Rare 19th C. African DR Congo Mbagani Wood Ritual Mask
Estimate $1,100 - $1,650
10 bidders are watching this item.
Shipping & Pickup Options
Item located in Louisville, CO, usOffers In-House Shipping
Local Pickup Available
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