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an image of a wooden mask with a bearda close up of a wooden mask on a black backgroundan image of a sculpture of a bird on a stickan image of a wig on a stand against a black background
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72 - PUVI Mask representing God (Nzembé-Kana, or Muhunzu).
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Estimate €1,000 - €1,500
Sale commission
Description
PUVI Mask representing God (Nzembé-Kana, or Muhunzu). From Pana, near Koula Moutou (Gabon). 20th century. Height: 35 cm. An IR spectroscopy dating certificate (G. Matthaes patent) from the Museo d’Arte e Scienza, Milan, no. 6AF-3754, indicates the date 1938 ± 8 years. Light wood with traces of kaolin patina. This mask features a forehead surmounted by a civet skin believed to possess magical powers. The eyebrows, eyes, mouth and chin are highlighted in black. The teeth are very finely carved inside the mouth. Traces of vertical scarification, formed by a dark-coloured coating, are visible on the cheeks. The lower part is edged with raffia. Provenance: Pierre Redouin Collection. Bibliography: Published in *Le Souffle des Esprits*, Les Éditions de l’Amateur, Pierre & Hadrien Redouin, 2012, p. 186. Description: It probably depicts Nzembé-Kana, the central figure of creation in Membè cosmogony, who leads the procession during the great mask processions of the Bwiti Ebando. Nzembé-Kana is regarded as the Father of the human lineage, the primordial Ancestor, the progenitor of humanity and the organiser of the material world. He established the laws of nature and social rules. He is the one who breathes life into all things and decreed death so that the cycle of souls might take place. According to Membè mythological accounts, Nzambé-Kana is the keeper of sacred knowledge. He inspired the design of the temple (mbandja), every element of which (post, nzimba, harp) is regarded as an extension of his mystical body.
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About the sale The Breath of the Spirits: The Collection of Pierre Redouin and Others
Auction location
Auction time 09/24/2026 at 2:30 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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