Pende Mbangu mask
This two-sided African mask, known as Mbangu, embodies physical and/or moral deformities. Originating from the Pende tradition, an ethnic group from the Democratic Republic of Congo, it referred to people with mental disorders, epilepsy, or even antisocial or bad-tempered individuals. The traditional Mbangu masks had a satirical intention.
The distorted and asymmetrical features of this mask, as well as the distinct distribution of its two colors, inspired many Western artists, including Picasso.
02464
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1960
- Size
- 20 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, raphia
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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This two-sided African mask, known as Mbangu, embodies physical and/or moral deformities. Originating from the Pende tradition, an ethnic group from the Democratic Republic of Congo, it referred to people with mental disorders, epilepsy, or even antisocial or bad-tempered individuals. The traditional Mbangu masks had a satirical intention.
The distorted and asymmetrical features of this mask, as well as the distinct distribution of its two colors, inspired many Western artists, including Picasso.