Mask, Ritual : 2014.1.32

Title:

Dance Mask

Object Name:

Mask, Ritual

Other Name:

Mask, Dance

Place of Origin:

Lega, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa

Provenance:

Aboriginal Indigenous Art.
H = 12"
W = 9"
D = 5"

Added 4/28/2016: Probably a Bwami mask and may have had a beard attached at one point in time. Bwami masks are symbols of the owner's rank within the Bwami society. The objects represent moral or social values, and are used during initiation rites. Their works of art are often associated with proverbs, and these proverbs in conjuction with dance, poetry, and song give wisdom to members of the society. The masks are fairly standardized, although the most important masks with special ritual use or symbolic meaning may have distinctive design. A typical mask will have a concave heart—shaped face. The forehead protrudes slightly, the nose is narrow, eyes are slits, and the mouth is slightly open. Every time a mask is used it is rubbed with white clay, over time acquiring the tan patina.

Description:

Dark brown dance mask with buff—colored, round heart—shaped face, oval—shaped pierced eyes. Sawtooth designed on bridge of wedge—shaped nose, oval—shaped pierced mouth.

Collection:

Finley Collection

Material:

Wood W/Paint

Used:

Ritually Used

Technique:

Carving / Painting

Owned:

Art Department, Missouri Southern State University

Accession#:

2014.1.32