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287 - Mbuya mask, fumu (chief) Pende culture, Kwilu-Kasai, Democra…
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Estimate €700 - €1,000
Sale commission
Description
Mbuya mask, fumu (chief) Pende culture, Kwilu-Kasai, Democratic Republic of Congo Materials: wood, pigments, raffia and vegetable fibres. Base included (gallery condition) Height: 49 cm Provenance: Former Belgian colonial collection, 1930s Mbuya type Pende facial mask, with a finely sculpted face with angular and controlled volumes, topped by a base. volumes, surmounted by a complete and monumental headdress composed of high made of carefully wound plant fibres. The ensemble stands out by its remarkable quality of preservation, the headdress having been preserved in its entirety The headdress has been preserved in its entirety - a particularly rare state for this type of ancient mask. The deliberately stylised features of the face - heavy eyelids, pronounced arches, closed mouth - give the ensemble a unique look. mouth - give the whole an expression of restraint and dignity. The ancient patina of the wood, the consistent wear of the fibres and the stability of the structure all bear witness to a mask that is mask that has retained most of its constituent elements. In the Pende culture, Mbuya masks form a vast ensemble used in community ceremonies community ceremonies, ritual performances and events linked to social and moral order. and moral order. Some female masks are characterised by their sober stylisation and measured presence presence, in contrast to the more satirical forms in the repertoire. Through the strength of its stylisation and the exceptional integrity of its hairstyle, this mask is fully in keeping with the classic Pende aesthetic. aesthetic, the formal impact of which helped to inform the artistic thinking of the European European avant-garde movements of the early 20th century, notably Pablo Picasso, who sought to Pablo Picasso, in his search for new forms of expression.
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About the sale ARTS OF AFRICA & OCEANIA: Three exceptional family collections
Auction location
Auction time 06/22/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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