This mask was carved in the style of the Bakongo people of DRC. The mask features a solemn expression with closed eyes. There are beautifully carved scarification on the forehead and cheeks, and mask has variegated chestnut to light brown pigmentation. The mask measures 11 inches tall, and weighs 1 pound. There is some chipping on the ears, and a crack on the right side of the face and some minor scuffing throughout the piece – please inspect photos. The mask does not come with a stand but one can be purchased if you desire.
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Bakongo African Face Mask 11″ – DRC
Original price was: $195.00.$97.50Current price is: $97.50.
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| Type of Object | Face Mask |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | DR Congo |
| Ethnicity | Bakongo (Kongo) |
| Material | Wood, Pigment |
| Approximate Age | Unknown |
| Height | 11" |
| Width | 7" |
| Depth | 5" |
| Weight | 1 lb |
| Overall Condition | Chips on ears, cracks on the head, and some scuffing. |
| Tribe Information |
Tribe Information
About the Bakongo People
Bakongo people are a matriarchal society who values their independence. They are the largest tribe in the Democratic Republic of Congo and have considerable populations in neighboring countries as well. The total population of the tribe was last estimated to be around 18 million world wide.
With such a vast population of people, their belief system is almost as so. For the most part, the majority of Bakongo people believe in a creator god and deities. When the Portuguese inserted themselves in the area in the 15the century, they used that belief system to convince the Bakongo that Christianity was the same thing. Missionaries would twist Bakongo language to push Christianity among the people, they would take words such as “nkisi” to mean “holy” as they were teaching their religion. Today, a mixture of traditional religion and Christianity is practiced. Both churches and shrines have been maintained.
Read more about the Bakongo here.