Rare Pende Mbangu Mask - Mbangu - Pende - DR Congo
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Rare Pende Mbangu mask from DR Congo, of Pende origin, provenance Privécollectie, height 32 cm.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
H: 32 cm
Pende Mbangu mask
The mask is distinguished by a contrast of black and white that cuts across the face and a general distortion of facial features, notably the distorted
nose and mouth. The color white, symbolic of the spirits of the dead, represents in this case the hope of healing from illness. The black pigment
stands for the illness and sickness that afflict a person throughout life. The combination of black against white symbolizes this struggle. It is very rare in
Africa to find any artwork depicting an individual struck by illness, weakness, or any form of disease.
It is believed that illness can be caused by an act that offends the spirits of the ancestors and is often seen as a punishment. So many objects
depicting illness are used to instruct the community and to warn against destructive behavior. This is especially true for masks, which are danced
to educate community members or remind them of rules and responsibilities. A selection of Nigerian Ibibio and Congolese Pende masks underscores
the link between illness and moral values.
Illness is also attributed to sorcery. It is believed that sorcerers are capable of unleashing evil powers against individuals, families, or the
community, often in the form of physical or mental illness.
Forming a stark contrast with sculptures that depict the ideal of health, other figures and masks represent a range of physical deformities caused by
illness and mental imbalance.
The mbangu mask is a variation on the depiction of a highly regarded hunter who has been struck by facial paralysis. It shows how
even the most valued and sincere member of the community can unexpectedly fall ill. In this case, the Pende believe that the
individual is a victim of sorcery, bewitched by a rival who has stirred envy with illness. This mask teaches the Pende audience about the rewards
of good behavior and the pitfalls of those who are morally defective. (Sources: To heal and to protect)
H: 32 cm
Pende Mbangu mask
The mask is distinguished by a contrast of black and white that cuts across the face and a general distortion of facial features, notably the distorted
nose and mouth. The color white, symbolic of the spirits of the dead, represents in this case the hope of healing from illness. The black pigment
stands for the illness and sickness that afflict a person throughout life. The combination of black against white symbolizes this struggle. It is very rare in
Africa to find any artwork depicting an individual struck by illness, weakness, or any form of disease.
It is believed that illness can be caused by an act that offends the spirits of the ancestors and is often seen as a punishment. So many objects
depicting illness are used to instruct the community and to warn against destructive behavior. This is especially true for masks, which are danced
to educate community members or remind them of rules and responsibilities. A selection of Nigerian Ibibio and Congolese Pende masks underscores
the link between illness and moral values.
Illness is also attributed to sorcery. It is believed that sorcerers are capable of unleashing evil powers against individuals, families, or the
community, often in the form of physical or mental illness.
Forming a stark contrast with sculptures that depict the ideal of health, other figures and masks represent a range of physical deformities caused by
illness and mental imbalance.
The mbangu mask is a variation on the depiction of a highly regarded hunter who has been struck by facial paralysis. It shows how
even the most valued and sincere member of the community can unexpectedly fall ill. In this case, the Pende believe that the
individual is a victim of sorcery, bewitched by a rival who has stirred envy with illness. This mask teaches the Pende audience about the rewards
of good behavior and the pitfalls of those who are morally defective. (Sources: To heal and to protect)
Details
Indigenous object name
Mbangu
Ethnic group/ culture
Pende
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Early 20th century
Material
Wood, kaolin
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Rare Pende Mbangu Mask
Height
32 cm
Provenance
Private collection
Sold by
