With certificate; Old African Mbunda mask - Angola. (No reserve price)






Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
| €50 | ||
|---|---|---|
| €45 | ||
| €44 | ||
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 122813 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Old African Mbunda mask from Angola, belonging to the Mbunda culture, provenance Privécollectie, height 21 cm, with certificate.
Description from the seller
Old African Mbunda mask - Angola.
Hand carved from a single piece of wood.
Height: 21 cm.
This Mbunda mask was dated mid 20th century and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
The Mbunda people speak the Mbunda language, which belongs to the Bantu branch of the Niger-Congo language family. Their origins trace back to migrations from present-day Zambia into southeastern Angola several centuries ago. Over time, the Mbunda established their own political structures and cultural identity, and they became known as a distinct ethnic group within the region. During the colonial era and Angola's civil conflicts, many Mbunda were displaced, but they have continued to maintain their traditions, language, and sense of community.
What are their lives like?
The Mbunda primarily reside in rural villages, where agriculture forms the core of their economy and daily existence. Families grow cassava, maize, millet, sorghum, and groundnuts as their main crops. Besides farming, they enhance their diet through hunting, fishing, and small-scale animal husbandry. Villages are usually centered around extended families, with community bonds playing a vital role in work, celebrations, and social order. The Mbunda are celebrated for their vibrant cultural expressions in music, storytelling, and dance. Their craftsmanship, especially in woodcarving and making ceremonial masks, showcases a rich artistic heritage. Although modern influences are gradually reaching Mbunda communities, many still cling to traditional customs and lifestyles.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Mbunda traditionally practice ancestor veneration, believing that the spirits of the dead continue to influence the living. Rituals, sacrifices, and offerings are made to ensure harmony and protection. Spirit mediums and diviners are often consulted to address illness, misfortune, or community decisions. Christianity has spread among the Mbunda, with both Catholic and Protestant churches present in the region. However, syncretism is common, and traditional beliefs are often blended with Christian practices. For many Mbunda, the gospel is still overshadowed by fear of spirits, reliance on rituals, and trust in traditional healers.
What Are Their Needs?
The Mbunda face significant physical and spiritual needs. Access to healthcare is limited, leaving communities vulnerable to preventable diseases and poor maternal health outcomes. Clean water and sanitation are often lacking, and educational opportunities are scarce, especially for children in remote villages. Spiritually, the Mbunda need access to clear and faithful teaching of the gospel in their own language. While some Bible translation work exists, there is still a need for accessible Scripture portions, discipleship materials, and trained local leaders who can communicate biblical truth in culturally meaningful ways. The Mbunda also need faithful Christian workers who are willing to live among them, build relationships, and patiently share the hope of Christ.
Seller's Story
Old African Mbunda mask - Angola.
Hand carved from a single piece of wood.
Height: 21 cm.
This Mbunda mask was dated mid 20th century and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
The Mbunda people speak the Mbunda language, which belongs to the Bantu branch of the Niger-Congo language family. Their origins trace back to migrations from present-day Zambia into southeastern Angola several centuries ago. Over time, the Mbunda established their own political structures and cultural identity, and they became known as a distinct ethnic group within the region. During the colonial era and Angola's civil conflicts, many Mbunda were displaced, but they have continued to maintain their traditions, language, and sense of community.
What are their lives like?
The Mbunda primarily reside in rural villages, where agriculture forms the core of their economy and daily existence. Families grow cassava, maize, millet, sorghum, and groundnuts as their main crops. Besides farming, they enhance their diet through hunting, fishing, and small-scale animal husbandry. Villages are usually centered around extended families, with community bonds playing a vital role in work, celebrations, and social order. The Mbunda are celebrated for their vibrant cultural expressions in music, storytelling, and dance. Their craftsmanship, especially in woodcarving and making ceremonial masks, showcases a rich artistic heritage. Although modern influences are gradually reaching Mbunda communities, many still cling to traditional customs and lifestyles.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Mbunda traditionally practice ancestor veneration, believing that the spirits of the dead continue to influence the living. Rituals, sacrifices, and offerings are made to ensure harmony and protection. Spirit mediums and diviners are often consulted to address illness, misfortune, or community decisions. Christianity has spread among the Mbunda, with both Catholic and Protestant churches present in the region. However, syncretism is common, and traditional beliefs are often blended with Christian practices. For many Mbunda, the gospel is still overshadowed by fear of spirits, reliance on rituals, and trust in traditional healers.
What Are Their Needs?
The Mbunda face significant physical and spiritual needs. Access to healthcare is limited, leaving communities vulnerable to preventable diseases and poor maternal health outcomes. Clean water and sanitation are often lacking, and educational opportunities are scarce, especially for children in remote villages. Spiritually, the Mbunda need access to clear and faithful teaching of the gospel in their own language. While some Bible translation work exists, there is still a need for accessible Scripture portions, discipleship materials, and trained local leaders who can communicate biblical truth in culturally meaningful ways. The Mbunda also need faithful Christian workers who are willing to live among them, build relationships, and patiently share the hope of Christ.
