Rare mask - Metoko - DR Congo
Opens Friday
Starting bid
€ 1
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Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 250 - € 300
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Description from the seller
The Metoko masks (or Mituku) originate from the southeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the Metoko people, descended from a legendary migration of the Lega, live around the Bukota cult. Carved in wood with parallel lines etched, reminiscent of tribal scarifications,
Used mainly in funerals and initiation rites, these masks embody the status of an elder victim of sorcery or an honored ancestor. Their abstract style, both dynamic and austere, reflects artistic influence close to the Lega while asserting their own identity. These pieces are today regarded as masterpieces of Congolese sculptural heritage.
Overview of our expert house
Based in Belgium, our expert house and sales firm specializes in African and ethnographic art. A leading seller on Catawiki for over 8 years, we benefit from a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with an almost 100% satisfaction rate.
We regularly assist with liquidations, estates, and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent, and accessible, with many sales offered without a reserve price.
Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.
Shipping guaranteed within 24 hours, with careful packaging, insurance, and tracking.
Contact 7 days a week: we remain available for any questions or requests for further information.
The Metoko masks (or Mituku) originate from the southeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where the Metoko people, descended from a legendary migration of the Lega, live around the Bukota cult. Carved in wood with parallel lines etched, reminiscent of tribal scarifications,
Used mainly in funerals and initiation rites, these masks embody the status of an elder victim of sorcery or an honored ancestor. Their abstract style, both dynamic and austere, reflects artistic influence close to the Lega while asserting their own identity. These pieces are today regarded as masterpieces of Congolese sculptural heritage.
Overview of our expert house
Based in Belgium, our expert house and sales firm specializes in African and ethnographic art. A leading seller on Catawiki for over 8 years, we benefit from a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with an almost 100% satisfaction rate.
We regularly assist with liquidations, estates, and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent, and accessible, with many sales offered without a reserve price.
Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.
Shipping guaranteed within 24 hours, with careful packaging, insurance, and tracking.
Contact 7 days a week: we remain available for any questions or requests for further information.
Details
Indigenous object name
Rare mask
Ethnic group/ culture
Metoko
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Height
34 cm
Width
1 cm
Depth
1 cm
Weight
1 g
Provenance
Private collection
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