Luba Beaded Mask
Democratic Republic of the Congo
A mask constructed along a vertical axis, the form contained within a rounded facial volume and extended through a fibre fringe at the lower edge.
Description
The face is encased in beadwork arranged in concentric and linear fields across the facial plane. Circular arrangements of cowrie shells surround recessed eye apertures, each pierced by a horizontal viewing slit. At the forehead, a reptilian form is defined within the beaded field. Below, the mouth is open, with carved teeth and a projecting tongue. A continuous row of cowrie shells defines the outer perimeter. A fibre fringe is attached along the lower perimeter.
Surface is stable. Beadwork and shells are secured across the facial plane; fibre elements intact; exposure at raised elements.
Context
Within Luba tradition, masks of this type function within royal ceremonial structures associated with chiefly authority.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 1985.
Details
- Title
- Luba Beaded Mask
- Culture
- Luba
- Origin
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Date
- 19th–20th century
- Dimensions
- Overall H 85 cm (33.5 in) · Head H 33 cm (13 in) · W 30 cm (11.8 in)
- Medium
- Wood, beads, cowrie shells, fibre
- Provenance
- From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 1985.
- Condition
- Stable surface; beadwork, shells, and fibre intact; exposure at raised elements.
