This Bena Lulua mask showcases beautifully carved patterns throughout its face. The mouth is pursed and there are two beard of hornlike protruding objects coming from the cheeks and facing downward. The mask measures 16 inches tall and weighs 3.5 pounds. There is some damage to the left protruding piece and there are numerous scrapes, scuffs and imperfections. The mask does not come with a stand but one can be added for an additional fee.
Type of Object | Face Mask |
---|---|
Country of Origin | DR Congo |
Ethnicity | Bena Lulua |
Material | Wood, Pigment |
Approximate Age | Unknown |
Height | 16" |
Width | 10" |
Depth | 9" |
Weight | 3.5 lbs |
Overall Condition | Missing tip of left beard; scrapes, scuffs and imperfections |
Tribe Information
About the Bena Lulua People
“Lulua is an umbrella term, which refers to a large number of heterogeneous peoples who populate the region near the Lulua River; between the Kasai and Sankuru rivers. The Lulua people migrated from western Africa during the 18th century and settled in the southern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire). They number 300,000 and live in small regional chiefdoms and in times of crisis elect a common leader. The role of the village chief is to insure juridical, political and social cohesion. During the late 19th century, Lulua culture underwent radical changes. In 1875, the Lulua king, Kalambam, introduces new social and religious regulations, which ended the traditional palm-wine drinking and hemp smoking.
Their economy is mostly based on agriculture, hunt and trade. Primarily farmers, Lulua women grow manioc as a staple crop, as well as beans, sweet potatoes, maize, yams, peanuts, and bananas. The men are responsible for clearing the forest and preparing the soil for cultivation. They also hunt, fish with nets, and trap animals in the surrounding forests. Salt is found in the region and is collected and sold to neighbors to generate income.”
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