Lot A69 - Pende mask – Mbuya type

Pende mask – Mbuya type

Democratic Republic of Congo

Height: 32 cm

Carved wooden mask with pronounced domed forehead, heavy eyelids and a strong, projecting nose. The expressive facial features, scarification marks on the cheeks and the open mouth with visible teeth are characteristic of masks associated with the Mbuya masquerade tradition of the Pende people.

The mask retains elements of its original fiber beard and elaborate headdress construction, composed of woven textile, plant fibers and braided material. The dark, lustrous patina and visible wear are consistent with age and traditional use.