[Untitled]
Item
Accession Number
2024.38.
Subject
Figure|Ritual|Central Africa
Country
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
patinated wood, white kaolin
Format
H x W x D: 11 1/4 in x 4 1/8 in x 2 1/8 in (28.575 cm x 10.478 cm x 5.398 cm)
Description
The Bembe Janus head symbolizes the Alunga mask. The Janus head has noticeable characteristics such as the double faced composition with large conical eyes. The eyes protrude from cross shapes of black, contrasting the white kaolin circles beneath them. Alunga is described as a spirit or force that can affect the living, specifically connected to hunting and the forest.
Type
Forest Spirit
Conforms To
Bembé