Tetela mask, DRC ex Zaire - Lot 40

Tetela mask, DRC ex Zaire This African mask reflects the impact of sculpture by neighboring groups such as the Luba, Songye and Kusu. The structure is reminiscent of kifwebe masks, but the main feature here is a protruding rectangular block mouth. The organs of sight and smell are comparatively discreet, while zoomorphic attributes rise to the top. Discreetly polychrome decoration with alternating diamond-shaped motifs. 40 x 17 cm Height on base: 46 cm Misses, abrasions Scattered throughout the Kasai basin, the Tetela of Mongo origin were the source of constant conflict with their neighbors. They were also heavily involved in the slave trade. Their highly diversified sculpture is marked by the influence of groups living in contact with them: in the north, their art was influenced by forest populations such as the Mongo, in the north-west by the Nkutschu, and in the west by the Binji and Mputu. Kuba traditions were also a source of inspiration, as were those of the Songye to the southwest. Their fetishes are kept out of sight. Animists, they seek to appease and direct the elements through the sorcerer Wichi and the priest Umpa. Their traditional currency of exchange, "dikonga", in the form of spearheads, has also helped to publicize the talents of their blacksmiths and those of the Nkutschu.