Lot A39 - Luba Striated Mask

Striated Mask with Raffia Costume

Luba (attributed), Democratic Republic of Congo
Wooden mask height: 25 cm
Total height including raffia: approx. 65 cm

Carved wooden mask of rounded, almost circular form with finely incised horizontal striations covering the facial surface. The modeling is restrained and balanced, with narrow slit eyes set within reddish-brown orbital zones, a long central nose ridge, and a small, rectangular mouth.

Unlike the more angular and forceful Songye Kifwebe types, this example displays softer transitions between planes and a calmer facial expression. The striations are evenly spaced and decorative rather than sharply graphic, suggesting a Luba interpretation or production within the Luba–Songye cultural sphere.

Traces of white and reddish pigment remain within the grooves, creating subtle chromatic contrast. The mask retains its raffia fiber costume attachment forming a long cascading surround, enhancing its ritual presence.

The overall aesthetic emphasizes harmony and controlled symmetry rather than overt tension.