African Arts Gallery

This relatively flat mask was made in a certain type of turtle shell by the Ndaaka, a tribe of farmers living in contact with groups of pygmy hunters Mbuti within the ituri forest, north of umaniema . The latter's artistic productions have thus greatly influenced the ethnic groups in the region. On this mask, if the artist did not take advantage of the natural relief of the shell, volumes could be created at the cheeks, geometric scarifications enhancing their bulge. Frontal wrinkles are in pyrogravure, other lines highlight the facial features, a thin horizontal groove also divides the face through the nose. The natural contours of the lower part of the shell, almost jagged under the chin, evoke a small beard. Like many peoples, the Ndaaka have sought to appropriate the qualities of the turtle, especially prudence, cunning and intelligence to protect themselves from predators, associated with wisdom and also longevity. The smooth, dark brown surface is similar to that of tanned leather.