Additional Information: This captivating mask with a deformed face is attributed to the Pende. The nose is elongated and curved. Masks with vigorously carved and twisted features represent individuals who have suffered epileptic seizures. Known as Mbangu, these masks show the moment of seizure when the Pende believe that the gods possessed the individual.  The Pende are known for their numerous artistic forms ranging from house decorations, figural sculptures, numerous carved ivory pendants, and a wide variety of masks. It is to masks from the Kwilu region that the association to Pende is made. Figures among the pende are not noted as often as the masks and when identified are known as ancestor figures or maternity figures placed on the roofs of chief's houses other female figures are placed near the doorway. This is further complicated by traditions of figural sculptural usage varies among the Pende divided into Eastern and Western groups. However the deeply sculpted face with its extraordinary near cubist like carving of the nose, eyes and ears is the product of a Pende western carver.

• Type of Object: Mask
• Materials: Wood, fiber, plastic
• Country of Origin: Democratic Republic of Congo
• Dimensions: Height: 14 InchesWidth: 7.5 InchesDepth: 6 Inches
• People: Pende

Type of Object: MaskAfrica Direct