Face Mask

Item

Accession Number: 2020.1
Title: Face Mask
Ethnic Group: Mbole
Subject: Mask|Ceremony|Central Africa
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date: 20th centry
Medium: Hard Wood|Kaolin|Palm Oil
Format: H x W x D: 10.5 x 8 x 1.5 in. (26.67 x 20.32 x 3.81 cm)
Description: Face mask of oval form with multi-perforations on two sides and a raised H-shaped panel in the center. This rare mask is worn by an executioner or "Kumi" during circumcision rituals and funerals of the Lilwa society. The side areas are painted with a mixture of kaolin and palm oil and the middle or center section is stained a dark brown and is highly patinated.