Dance mask - Pende - Congo

07
days
10
hours
18
minutes
19
seconds
Current bid
€ 200
Reserve price not met
Dimitri André
Expert
Selected by Dimitri André

Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.

Estimate  € 2,800 - € 3,100
BE
€200
BE
€190
BE
€180

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Wooden Pende Muyombo mask from the Congo, about 41 cm high, in fairly good used condition with possible minor losses, provenance private USA collection, sold with a stand.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Wood, fibre, pigments

41 cm

Custom-made base

Provenance
Private collection, USA

Literature
L'art Pende, L. de SOUSBERGHE

This mask of the Mbuya category, more specifically of the Muyombo type, designed by the Pende people of the central region, carries a deep cultural significance. This mask is distinguished by its chin extension, known as the "Mutumbi", which symbolises a stylized beard, adding a touch of elegance and character to the object. It is said that this mask is the one that dances most proudly, illustrating the vitality and richness of Pende traditions. During ceremonies or ritual dances, it embodies the fervour and identity of this people, contributing to the transmission of essential cultural values.

The Mbuya masks, emblematic of circumcision rites, play a crucial role in Pende culture. Their use during these ceremonies carries deep meaning, symbolising the passage to adulthood and integration into the community. However, it is often difficult to precisely identify a Pende mask without observing the performance it accompanies. Indeed, each mask is unique and its interpretation varies depending on the movements and dances that come to life during the ceremony. The masks are not only works of art, but essential actors of culture and tradition, transmitting values and knowledge through generations. Through these performances, the masks reveal their true essence and their place in society.

A left-side crack repaired that in no way detracts from the mask's presence.

Seller's Story

After several impactful journeys, a tribal art enthusiast decided to share his fascination for often-overlooked works by launching an online gallery. This project aims to showcase objects from diverse origins, providing a platform to discover creations that are as rich as they are varied. The gallery offers a carefully curated selection of works ranging from masks to sculptures, and from ritual objects to everyday items. Each piece tells a story, embodying the culture and traditions of the artists, while allowing art lovers to explore the work of deserving talents from the other side of the world. More than just an art sales platform, the project fosters cultural awareness and exchange, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty and depth of tribal art. Based in Montauban (France); visits by appointment.
Translated by Google Translate

Wood, fibre, pigments

41 cm

Custom-made base

Provenance
Private collection, USA

Literature
L'art Pende, L. de SOUSBERGHE

This mask of the Mbuya category, more specifically of the Muyombo type, designed by the Pende people of the central region, carries a deep cultural significance. This mask is distinguished by its chin extension, known as the "Mutumbi", which symbolises a stylized beard, adding a touch of elegance and character to the object. It is said that this mask is the one that dances most proudly, illustrating the vitality and richness of Pende traditions. During ceremonies or ritual dances, it embodies the fervour and identity of this people, contributing to the transmission of essential cultural values.

The Mbuya masks, emblematic of circumcision rites, play a crucial role in Pende culture. Their use during these ceremonies carries deep meaning, symbolising the passage to adulthood and integration into the community. However, it is often difficult to precisely identify a Pende mask without observing the performance it accompanies. Indeed, each mask is unique and its interpretation varies depending on the movements and dances that come to life during the ceremony. The masks are not only works of art, but essential actors of culture and tradition, transmitting values and knowledge through generations. Through these performances, the masks reveal their true essence and their place in society.

A left-side crack repaired that in no way detracts from the mask's presence.

Seller's Story

After several impactful journeys, a tribal art enthusiast decided to share his fascination for often-overlooked works by launching an online gallery. This project aims to showcase objects from diverse origins, providing a platform to discover creations that are as rich as they are varied. The gallery offers a carefully curated selection of works ranging from masks to sculptures, and from ritual objects to everyday items. Each piece tells a story, embodying the culture and traditions of the artists, while allowing art lovers to explore the work of deserving talents from the other side of the world. More than just an art sales platform, the project fosters cultural awareness and exchange, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty and depth of tribal art. Based in Montauban (France); visits by appointment.
Translated by Google Translate

Details

Era
1900-2000
Material
Wood
Country of origin
Congo
Condition
Fair condition - heavily used & with possibly minor parts missing
Ethnic group/culture
Pende
Height
41 cm
Indigenous object name
Muyombo
Sold with stand
Yes
Estimated period
1920-1930
FranceVerified
15
Objects sold
100%
pro

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