Old Ngbaka / Bwaka Mask, Ubangi, R.D. Congo - masque - Bwaka - DR Congo

Very old and rare Ngbaka / Bwaka mask from the Ubangi region. R.D. Congo.

Wood, remains of white pigments covering what was once the area from the upper lip to the base of the nose.

Very beautiful antique patina with obvious signs of use visible on the worn interior part. Old wear and damages; cracks, notably on the left side, missing parts at the top and on certain sections of the outline. For a detailed condition report, please refer to the attached photos.

Height 25cm (excluding base), width 15.5cm.

Provenance

Zemanek Sale, 79th auction, March 2015, lot 392. Estimate: €3,500 – €7,000.

wood, brown patina, remains of pigments, heart-shaped deepened facial plane, the eyes accentuated by drilled holes, vertical scarification (forehead-nose-chin), damaged, missing part at the back, cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base

Subsequently acquired from a reputable Belgian collector and dealer.

References:

Ngbaka classification in Ubangi, Fonds Mercator edition, p. 204.

Similar mask, Sotheby, Paris, May 13, 2011, lot 276.

See also photos for another mask from the same house.

Custom support made to measure included.

Antique mask, rare on the market.

€2,500 / €3,500.
Reserve price much lower