BENA LULUA, PAINTED WOODEN MASK, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

Congo. This carved wooden mask features an elongated face, half-closed almond-shaped eyes, a projecting triangular nose, and a broad striped crest. Its surface is decorated with white pigment and incised geometric motifs, and perforations along the edge allow for attachment to a fiber costume or headdress. Such masks were worn during ceremonial dances related to initiation rites, community celebrations, and ancestral traditions. They were believed to embody protective ancestral spirits and reinforce social values through ritual performance. Dimensions approximately 8 × 8.5 × 5.5 inches In Good Condition overall. Surface wear throughout, with chipping, abrasions, scattered scratches, and collected residue. The white pigment shows significant paint loss and flaking. Moderate chipping along the edges and on the raised carved areas.

1413967

Special Collections - Upstairs

Price: $300