Artwork Page for Mask (Emangungu)

Details / Information for Mask (Emangungu)

Mask (Emangungu)

possibly early 1900s

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Bembe-style maker

Medium
Wood, kaolin, colorant, and iron
Measurements
Overall: 46 cm (18 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund 2006.116
Public Domain
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Location
108A African
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Did You Know?

White kaolin clay highlights the eyes of this carved wooden mask.

Description

Among the Bembe, anthropo-zoomorphic plank masks are used in circumcision rites called butende. They are worn along with a costume of bark and banana leaves by the initiated boys who beg for food in the village while living in seclusion in the forest. The sculpture’s short projections above the forehead are identified as an owl’s tufts. The two pairs of eyes could refer to divination.

Mask (Emangungu)

possibly early 1900s

Africa, Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Bembe-style maker

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