This mask was carved in the style of the Tabwa people of DRC. The mask portrays a bull with beautiful long horns. It measures 26.5 inches wide by 8.5 inches tall and weighs 5.5 pounds. This piece would make a wonderful addition to any home. There is a crack between the eyes – please inspect photos. This piece does not come with a stand but one can be added for an additional fee – please inquire.
Sale!
Beautiful Tabwa Bull African Mask 26.5″ Wide – DRC
Original price was: $350.00.$245.00Current price is: $245.00.
Sold
| Type of Object | Mask |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | DR Congo |
| Ethnicity | Tabwa |
| Animal | |
| Material | Wood, Pigment |
| Approximate Age | Unknown |
| Height | 8.5" |
| Width | 26.5" |
| Depth | 11.5" |
| Weight | 5.5lbs |
| Overall Condition | Crack in between eyes |
| Tribe Information |
Tribe Information
About the Tabwa People
“Historically, Tabwa people lived under Luba domination in small autonomous villages scattered within a territory that expanded across the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) and Zambia, along Lake Tanganyika. Interestingly, the verb ‘tabwa’ means ‘to be tied up’ and refers to when these people were taken as slaves. During the 19th century, the ivory trade brought wealth to the region and Tabwa people gained their independence. Today, they number 200,000 and are led by chief-sorcerers who rule over village chiefs and family chiefs. Their power is counterbalanced by male societies created on Luba prototypes and by female associations influenced by East African models. Traditionally, Tabwa people made their living from hunting and blacksmithing; nowadays, they farm and fish.
The influence on Tabwa art of their eastern Tanzanian neighbors is seen in their use of linear geometric decoration, while their western neighbors, the Luba, influenced the incorporation of prestige objects into Tabwa life.”
Source:
Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc. 1998. Print.