Kuba Ngaady a Mwaash mask
€340.00
This remarkable polychrome wooden mask stylistically belongs to the artistic traditions of the Kuba peoples of the Kasai region, and more specifically to the female mask tradition known as Ngaady a Mwaash. This attribution is supported by the oval face, elongated nearly closed eyes and, above all, the elaborate red, black and white painted decoration. The alternating triangular patterns across the forehead closely correspond to documented Ngaady a Mwaash examples, while the long vertical lines descending beneath the eyes recall the byoosh’dy motifs interpreted in the literature as tears.
Within Kuba royal tradition, Ngaady a Mwaash is an idealized female figure associated with the founding narrative of Woot. She may appear as his sister and consort and participates, together with other masked characters, in performances connected with public ceremonies, initiations and funerals.
The strength of this example lies in the balance between sculpture and painted design. A powerful nose, projecting eyelids and full lips structure the face, while triangles, chevrons, parallel bands and meanders cover the surface with a dense rhythmic pattern. The polychromy displays attractive wear, revealing the underlying wood in places.
The high-quality metal display stand shown in the photographs is included with the mask, allowing the piece to be presented immediately in a refined gallery-style setting.
Shipping fees
02720
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 29 cm (40 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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This remarkable polychrome wooden mask stylistically belongs to the artistic traditions of the Kuba peoples of the Kasai region, and more specifically to the female mask tradition known as Ngaady a Mwaash. This attribution is supported by the oval face, elongated nearly closed eyes and, above all, the elaborate red, black and white painted decoration. The alternating triangular patterns across the forehead closely correspond to documented Ngaady a Mwaash examples, while the long vertical lines descending beneath the eyes recall the byoosh’dy motifs interpreted in the literature as tears.
Within Kuba royal tradition, Ngaady a Mwaash is an idealized female figure associated with the founding narrative of Woot. She may appear as his sister and consort and participates, together with other masked characters, in performances connected with public ceremonies, initiations and funerals.
The strength of this example lies in the balance between sculpture and painted design. A powerful nose, projecting eyelids and full lips structure the face, while triangles, chevrons, parallel bands and meanders cover the surface with a dense rhythmic pattern. The polychromy displays attractive wear, revealing the underlying wood in places.
The high-quality metal display stand shown in the photographs is included with the mask, allowing the piece to be presented immediately in a refined gallery-style setting.