Miniature Pende ritual mask, DRC - Lot 128

Miniature Pende ritual mask, DRC This miniature African mask refers to the Kiwoyo mask of the Eastern Pende, or the Giwoyo mask of the Central Pende. Originally associated with the deceased lying on his bed, it is associated with funeral rituals. The greenish face is prolonged by a vertical chinstrap edged with raffia. 29 x 8 cm Base. Nowadays, it takes part in peaceful and festive ceremonies. The Western Pende live on the banks of the Kwilu, while the Eastern Pende have settled on the banks of the Kasai downstream from Tshikapa. The influences of neighboring ethnic groups - Mbla, Suku, Wongo, Leele, Kuba and Salempasu - have left their mark on their extensive tribal art sculpture. Within this diversity, the realistic Mbuya masks, produced every ten years, have a festive function, and embody various characters, including the chief, the diviner and his wife, the prostitute, the possessed, etc... Initiation and power masks, known as minganji , represent the ancestors and are performed successively during the same ceremonies, such as agricultural festivals, initiation and circumcision rituals (mukanda) and the enthronement of the chief. Polychrome matte patina. Source: Kerchache