Pende 'Mbangu' Mask from a Private Collection, First of the Half 20th Century

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Pende 'Mbangu' Mask from a Private Collection, First of the Half 20th Century

About the Item

The mask is recognized by an opposition of black and white that bisects the face and a general distortion of facial features specifically the twisted nose and mouth. The color white, symbolic of the spirits of the dead, in this case represents the hope of being cured of illness. The black pigment stands for the sickness and illness that ravages one throughout life. The combination of black against white symbolizes this struggle. It is very rare in Africa to find any work of art that depicts an individual stricken by sickness, infirmity or any type of disease. It is believed that disease can be brought about by an act offending spirits of ancestors and is often viewed as a punishment. Thus, many objects showing disease are used to instruct the community and to caution against destructive behavior. This is especially true of masks, which are danced to teach or remind members of the community about rules and responsibilities. A selection of Nigerian Ibibio and Congolese Pende masks underline the connection between disease and moral values. The mbangu mask is a variation on the representation of a highly regarded hunter who has been stricken with facial paralysis. It demonstrates how even the most esteemed and upright member of the community can unexpectedly be afflicted with sickness. In this case, the Pende believe that the individual is a victim of sorcery, bewitched by a rival who jealously inflicted him with disease. This mask teaches Pende audiences about the rewards of good behavior and of the pitfalls of those who are morally flawed. (View our full inventory by searching for 'Toad')

Dimensions:
Height: 15.75 in (40 cm)Width: 5.52 in (14 cm)Depth: 5.52 in (14 cm)Seat Height: 3.94 in (10 cm)
Style:
Tribal (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Wood
Place of Origin:
Congo, Democratic Republic of the
Period:
20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
First Half of the 20th Century
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU2276312631002