Kuba / Ngeende mask, DRC ex Zaire - Lot 105

Kuba / Ngeende mask, DRC ex Zaire Deformity in African art Bulbous forehead and shaven temples for this mask, decorated with a polychrome pastillage on a blackened background, distinguished by its outré, deformed features, evoking an illness. The eyes are reduced to a series of perforations. Matt polychrome patina, abrasions. 25 x. 16 cm Height on base: 41 cm More than twenty types of mask are used among the Kuba, with meanings and functions that vary from group to group. Ritual ceremonies were occasions for the display of decorative arts and masks, to honor the spirit of the deceased or the king. Three types of mask were associated with dances held within the royal precincts: the first, known as Moshambwooy, represents Woot, the founder of the Bushoong, the hero of the culture. The second, known as Nady Amwaash (Ngaady Un Mwash), embodies Woot's wife/sister, a character said to have been introduced to give greater prominence to the role of women. The third mask is called Bwoom. As a character, Bwoom has been variously interpreted as a prince (younger brother of the king), a man of the people, a pygmy, even a subversive element at the royal court.