African Masks
Congolese mask, 'Brave Hunter'
Salihu Ibrahim reveals the artistic mysteries of the Songye people with this impressive, hand-carved mask. This tribe from Congo is known to have several secret societies and a distinctive form of artistry characterizes each one.
Zairian wood mask, 'Man of Success'
Beautifully carved by hand, this mask is representative of the Bakongo people of Zaire. It features brass repouss� on the forehead and subtle applications of red. By Walter Kuma, such masks are used during the annual festival to wish for success in the days and months to come.
Wood mask, 'Instrument of Power'
Bright color distinguishes this beautiful mask from the Bakuba kingdom in Central Congo. Stripes cover the symmetrical features in a smooth work of minimalist elegance. Victor Yao Delanyo works in sese wood, carving, painting and polishing the piece by hand.
Wood mask, 'Alert Boa Warrior'
Evans Doe Martey presents an image from the Boa people who live in the savannas in the northern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. They are known for their masks. Featuring large ears that signify alertness, this handsome antique-style piece represents a warrior.
Congolese mask, 'Thank You Nature'
The Beyembe people of Congo show their appreciation for nature's gifts with this colorful mask. They wear it at their annual festival to thank Mother Nature for the air they breathe and the water they drink, as well as for the food, trees, sun, moon and stars.
Wood mask, 'Congo Tribal Chief'
Victor Yao Delanyo celebrates Congo traditions with this elegant mask, reserved for tribal chiefs, or baluba. Oval in shape, the mask features big round eyes and a half-open mouth; the expression is one of wisdom and solemnity. Delanyo carves the mask by hand from local sese wood.
Wood mask, 'Congo Medicine Man'
This solemn mask features the grave visage of a worried medicine man. Victor Yao Delanyo hand-carves this piece according to the customs of the Basonge people from Congo. Named Fwebe ("chief"), it is usually worn by a priest during rituals to cleanse the village from pestilence.
Wood mask, 'Congo Warrior'
Lending this visage a mythical quality, the hand-carved features are dramatically elongated. Narrow eyes slant upward toward a wrinkled brow. Representing a warrior in contemplation, this mask by Victor Yao Delanyo is sculpted of sese wood.
Wood mask, 'Power of the Patriarch'
Shaped like a teardrop, a stern visage stares with rounded eyes. Imposing and beautiful, the bearded personage is adorned with polished plates of textured brass. Triple rows of colorful beads surround the eyes.
Congolese mask, 'Brave Police'
Salihu Ibrahim honors the artistic mysteries of the Songye people with this impressive, hand-carved mask. This tribe from Congo relies on farming and hunting, and is known to have several secret societies. They each have a distinctive form of artistry.