African art > African mask, tribal art, primitive art > Mbole mask

Mbole mask (N° 28220)

The African mask Mbole appears on stage during the funerals of Lilwa dignitaries or is used by the blacksmith during circumcision rituals. Flat, oval in shape, it offers discreet reliefs accentuating the eyebrow line that is enhanced by contrasting shades. Height on base: 38 cm.
The Lualaba province had several closely related ethnic groups with similar associations. The Mbole and the Yela are known for their statues embodying, according to D. Biebuck, hanged men, called ofika. The lilwa, an association with dogmatic initiation rites, had the custom of judging and condemning to hanging those guilty of infractions of the imposed rules, which nevertheless remained exceptional. These offences ranged from murder to adultery to breaking the secret surrounding the lilwa. Dishonoured, the bodies of the condemned were not given any funeral and were buried in the forest.  

240.00 
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OriginEx-collection belge
EthnyMbole
Countryrdc ex zaire
Material(s)wood, raphia
Height cm28
Width17 cm
Weight0.73 Kg
Estimated datingmid-xx°
Socle includedYes

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