Boa Mask, Congo #671

Boa Mask, Congo #671Boa Mask, Congo Very old mask in wood with kaolin and pigments, typical of the Boa ethnic group of the Democratic Republic of Congo We know very little about the Boa tribe, other than the fact that they are about two hundred thousand individuals who mainly live from agriculture in a savannah area located in the north of the Democratic Republic of Congo (former Zaire). The social organization is limited to the village, ruled by a chief originating from

• Boa Mask, Congo
• Very old mask in wood with kaolin and pigments, typical of the Boa ethnic group of the Democratic Republic of Congo
• We know very little about the Boa tribe, other than the fact that they are about two hundred thousand individuals who mainly live from agriculture in a savannah area located in the north of the Democratic Republic of Congo (former Zaire).
• The social organization is limited to the village, ruled by a chief originating from the main clan; they are frequently in contact with their neighbors, the Mangbetu and the Zande.
• The Boa are best known for their masks with large rounded and pierced ears, which were probably used in Ceremonies related to war, to encourage the warriors and celebrate the victories.
• They are also known for their Ancestors’ Statuettes with Apotropaic Functions (commonly known as 'ritual protection marks', or even 'witch marks', an apotropaic image or symbol is a marking that is thought to create a 'protection' for the individual that created it - or for the area or object into which it was inscribed), presenting the same ears, which are easily recognizable.
• Measurements: 33×20×7 cm
• Circa 1940-50's
• Condition: Excellent, showing signs of wear and use. Fine Ritual Patina still evident.
• Sold with stand