Zande mask of Mani
The art of Ubangi in the Azande initiation
Very rare Zande African mask from the northwest of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ubangi region.
This traditional mask with solid forms has several particularities. First of all, there is a feather headdress with a few rare masks of Zande and Ngbandi origin at the top. It should be noted that this headdress could be replaced regularly depending on its wear, the mask itself being therefore older than the headdress.
The polychromy has been well preserved; this allowed initiates to decipher esoteric messages. Finally, note the presence of fine scarifications on the forehead and around the face.
This mask was worn during initiation rites generally linked to circumcision as part of the activities of the Mani or Yanda society. Only Mani initiates were authorized to attend these rites, which took place away from the village, in a camp located in the bush where they retired with the young boys in order to prepare them for the transition to adulthood.
Public dances and ceremonies also existed in the Zande culture.
Authentic mask of unparalleled rarity, the mask is complete with the original pigmentation and comes from a very interesting museum collection where details can be provided.
This mask comes from an important collection of masks from the North of the D. R. Congo.
01954
Data sheet
- Size
- 51 cm (68 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Condition
- Excellent
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The art of Ubangi in the Azande initiation
Very rare Zande African mask from the northwest of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ubangi region.
This traditional mask with solid forms has several particularities. First of all, there is a feather headdress with a few rare masks of Zande and Ngbandi origin at the top. It should be noted that this headdress could be replaced regularly depending on its wear, the mask itself being therefore older than the headdress.
The polychromy has been well preserved; this allowed initiates to decipher esoteric messages. Finally, note the presence of fine scarifications on the forehead and around the face.
This mask was worn during initiation rites generally linked to circumcision as part of the activities of the Mani or Yanda society. Only Mani initiates were authorized to attend these rites, which took place away from the village, in a camp located in the bush where they retired with the young boys in order to prepare them for the transition to adulthood.
Public dances and ceremonies also existed in the Zande culture.
Authentic mask of unparalleled rarity, the mask is complete with the original pigmentation and comes from a very interesting museum collection where details can be provided.
This mask comes from an important collection of masks from the North of the D. R. Congo.