Large Wooden Mask
Item
Accession Number
2023.9.
Title
Large Wooden Mask
Ethnic Group
Luba
Subject
Mask|Ceremonial|Central Africa
Country
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
wood, kaolin pigment, cowrie shells
Format
H x W x D: 23 in x 15 in x 8 in (58.42 cm x 38.1 cm x 20.32 cm)
Description
Large mask carved of wood, painted black and white with kaolin pigment. Small circular holes around the edges to attach additional elements such as raffia. The mask has incised lines on the horns and inlaid shells for the eyes. A lizard relief sculpture rests in the center of the head, at a slightly higher relief. The buffalo symbolizes strength and determination in Luba society, and the masker was to obtain those characteristics during ritual practices when wearing the mask.
Type
Face Mask
