Mask - Bakongo - DR Congo (No reserve price)






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.
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Ngobudi mask from the Bakongo people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, provenance Private Collection, 37 cm high, 1 cm deep, 1 cm wide, weight 1 g, in good condition, no stand.
Description from the seller
The Ngobudi masks, derived from the Kongo tradition in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in Angola, are distinguished by their judicial and spiritual role. Carved in dense wood, these masks are characterized by stylized features, a mouth often slightly open, and almond-shaped eyes, evoking a presence that is both imposing and mysterious. Their surface, sometimes covered with pigments or resin, reinforces their sacred aspect.
Used during the ceremonies of the Ngobudi society, these masks embody ancestral spirits responsible for administering justice, resolving conflicts, and protecting the community. Their appearance, accompanied by dances and songs, marks key moments of social life, such as intronizations or purification rituals. Thus, the Ngobudi masks symbolize the alliance between traditional authority, spirituality, and social cohesion, while reflecting Kongo cultural richness.
Overview of our expertise house
Based in Belgium, our expertise and sales house specializes in African art and ethnography. A reference seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a history of hundreds of sales with an almost 100% satisfaction rate.
We regularly assist with liquidations, successions, and dispersals 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.
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 additional information.
The Ngobudi masks, derived from the Kongo tradition in the Democratic Republic of Congo and in Angola, are distinguished by their judicial and spiritual role. Carved in dense wood, these masks are characterized by stylized features, a mouth often slightly open, and almond-shaped eyes, evoking a presence that is both imposing and mysterious. Their surface, sometimes covered with pigments or resin, reinforces their sacred aspect.
Used during the ceremonies of the Ngobudi society, these masks embody ancestral spirits responsible for administering justice, resolving conflicts, and protecting the community. Their appearance, accompanied by dances and songs, marks key moments of social life, such as intronizations or purification rituals. Thus, the Ngobudi masks symbolize the alliance between traditional authority, spirituality, and social cohesion, while reflecting Kongo cultural richness.
Overview of our expertise house
Based in Belgium, our expertise and sales house specializes in African art and ethnography. A reference seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a history of hundreds of sales with an almost 100% satisfaction rate.
We regularly assist with liquidations, successions, and dispersals 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.
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 additional information.
