Mask - Ndaaka - DR Congo

Masque Ndaaka – Ituri Forest, DRC – angular typology, powerful graphics, original polychromy

Rare authentic Ndaaka mask from the Ituri Forest, presented here in a particularly sought-after variant: a less oval shape, more angular, almost “architected,” which further strengthens the visual impact. The face, stretched and widened at the crown, tapers to a point at the bottom, giving the mask an immediate presence and a very modern read.

The pictorial treatment is remarkable: large triangular fields on the forehead, clear contrasts between black and red, then a surface animated by a regular scatter of black dots on a light, patinated background. This polychromy, coherent and still highly legible, makes the Ndaaka signature and places the piece in a high-level graphic register. The narrow, oblique eyes, the small protruding nasal ridge, and especially the open mouth with visible teeth create a strong, almost “fierce” expression, typical of the best specimens.

The peripheral perforations attest to mounting and wear, and the surface shows genuine patina of use: wear marks, abrasions, duller or shinier areas, evidence of ritual life rather than a “made-for” object. A rare piece, very expressive, ticking all the boxes expected by discerning enthusiasts of the Ndaaka corpus.

Presentation from our expertise house:

Based in Belgium, our expertise and sales house has supported collectors and families for years, with a simple approach: seriousness, transparency and service. We enjoy a solid reputation among tribal art lovers and are among the reference sellers on Catawiki, where we count among the oldest merchants (over 8 years).

We have expert appraisals and have overseen the liquidation and dispersion of dozens of family collections, and sold thousands of objects in partnership with individuals, notaries, estates, inheritances and collection cessations. Our track record speaks for itself: several hundred evaluations with nearly 100% positive feedback, an indicator that outweighs any talking points about our commitment and reliability.

Pieces passed through our hands now feature in prestigious collections and, for some, have joined museum institutions — a guarantee of the quality and coherence of our selection throughout the year. We regularly offer sale events with no reserve price.

Express shipping: dispatch within 24 hours, insured, tracked, and packaged with exceptional care and security.

Contact 7 days a week: we respond quickly and remain at your disposal to advise and document objects in the course of sale.