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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
African Masks : Lulua Wooden Ceremonial Mask
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Lulua Wooden Ceremonial Mask - PF.4363
Origin: Southeastern Congo
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
13.25" (33.7cm) high
x 7.75" (19.7cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Wood
Additional Information: SOLD
$6,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
This beautifully elongated mask,
expresses the power of ritualistic
activity. This mask was part of
ritualistic ceremonies within the tribe.
For the most part, a mask is usually a
representation of a deity or other
important role models. The border edges
of the mask contain holes that were used
to secure it upon the face of the
participant. The cheeks and chin are
pointed with an aquiline nose,
demonstrating the angularity and
prominence of character. The protruding
lips reveal the idea of speech and
possible wishes of this character.
There are also noticeable holes in the
mouth that can signify the idea of
communicating in more than one language.
However, it is the eye area that is most
striking and mysterious about this mask.
The eye itself consists of a series of
large holes punctured into the wood and
surrounded by smaller holes, creating an
owl-like effect. This sort of
decoration around the eye would be a
tribal form of beautification and
perhaps a type of ranking with a more
general hierarchy. The symbolic effect
the holes in the mouth represent the
same can be said regarding the eyes. It
is possible to see more than what is
actually there.
A mask's power can conceal the identity
of the person who wears it, but it
cannot and does not conceal the true
magnificence of artistic design and
meaning that is deeply rooted in
tradition. This mask does not intend to
evoke fear, but respect and pride for
the past, a lesson that has been handed
down through the generations, and
continues on.
- (PF.4363)
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