Distorted faces are rarely depicted in African art. For the Pende, they represent the effect of an epileptic seizure, which was thought to be a manifestation of the spirits. The use of black pigments emphasizes the overall distortion of the faces.
Good condition with a nice aged patina.

Face is half black, half white
White symbolic of spirits of the dead (represents hope of illness cure)
Black symbolic of sickness and illness
Good condition with a fine patina of age. Provenance: former private German collection.

Object

Mbangu Distorted Mask

Ethnic group:

Pende

Country:

DR Congo

Material:

Wood

Estimated period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

No

Dimensions:

26x22x9 cm

Weight:

500 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $160.00

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Location: This item ships from The Netherlands

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