Mask - Boa - DR Congo

Boa masks (or kpongadomba) come from the Boa ethnic group in the northeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Carved in wood and often enriched with red pigments or dark patinas, they are distinguished by their large pierced ears — once the 'ears' of the Boa — and a mouth filled with teeth or fragments of wood, creating an intimidating effect. These masks were commissioned by chiefs (for example Chief Kumu) and given to the bravest warriors; they were supposed to render their wearer invulnerable and to frighten the enemy during war rites. In ceremonies, the dancer wears the mask to embody the Boa’s protective spirit, ensuring victory and the village's protection. Because of their rarity, Boa masks are among the most sought-after objects on the African art market, symbolizing both martial power and the sculptural craft of this people.

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Based in Belgium, our house of expertise and sale specializes in African art and ethnography. A leading seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we have a solid reputation and a history of several hundred sales with a nearly 100% satisfaction rate.

We regularly assist with liquidations, successions and dispersions of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent and accessible, with sales often offered without reserve prices.

Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.

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