Masque, respected elder. - Bapende - Pende - DR Congo (No reserve price)
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Masque mbuya, a wooden mask of the Pende from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, dating to 2000–2010, measuring 31 by 20 cm, weighing 700 g, with provenance Galerie/Antiquaire.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
The Mbuya masks hold a central place in the art and culture of the Pende people (Kwilu Region, Democratic Republic of the Congo). Unlike many African masks dedicated exclusively to secret rituals, the Mbuya masks are intended for public village ceremonies.
Here is what you need to know about these fascinating masks:
The meaning and usage
The term 'Mbuya' refers to village masks as opposed to initiation masks (which are more secret). They are used for:
Celebrating the end of the young boys' initiation (Mukanda).
Entertain the community through theatrical performances.
To embody social types or specific characters of the village.
2. The aesthetic features
The Pende masks are easily recognizable thanks to their unique stylistic traits.
The prominent forehead: often wide and protruding.
The 'coffee bean' eyes: heavy, drooping eyelids that give a melancholic or introspective appearance.
The inverted 'V': The eyebrows often meet at the base of the nose to form a continuous line.
The mouth: Often slightly open, sometimes showing the teeth.
The headpiece: made of raphia fibers or dark fabrics, mimicking hairstyles from a certain period.
The iconic characters
Each mask represents a specific character with its own temperament and its own dance.
Dimension: 31/20 cm
Weight: 700 grams
The Mbuya masks hold a central place in the art and culture of the Pende people (Kwilu Region, Democratic Republic of the Congo). Unlike many African masks dedicated exclusively to secret rituals, the Mbuya masks are intended for public village ceremonies.
Here is what you need to know about these fascinating masks:
The meaning and usage
The term 'Mbuya' refers to village masks as opposed to initiation masks (which are more secret). They are used for:
Celebrating the end of the young boys' initiation (Mukanda).
Entertain the community through theatrical performances.
To embody social types or specific characters of the village.
2. The aesthetic features
The Pende masks are easily recognizable thanks to their unique stylistic traits.
The prominent forehead: often wide and protruding.
The 'coffee bean' eyes: heavy, drooping eyelids that give a melancholic or introspective appearance.
The inverted 'V': The eyebrows often meet at the base of the nose to form a continuous line.
The mouth: Often slightly open, sometimes showing the teeth.
The headpiece: made of raphia fibers or dark fabrics, mimicking hairstyles from a certain period.
The iconic characters
Each mask represents a specific character with its own temperament and its own dance.
Dimension: 31/20 cm
Weight: 700 grams
Details
Indigenous object name
Bapende
No. of items
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Pende
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
2000-2010
Material
Wood
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Masque, respected elder.
Height
31 cm
Width
20 cm
Weight
700 g
Provenance
Gallery / Antique dealer
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