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Ngbaka Congolese Tribal Mask for Initiation Rituals - Early 20th Century

Offered by: Kulik Selzer

Description
With a beautiful dark patina, this early 20th-century wooden mask shows a naturalistic human face, flattened, with the forehead, open mouth, and stylised teeth in light relief. The ridged, elongated nose and the diagonal ridges on the forehead are characteristic of these ‘Dagara’ masks, corresponding to the facial scarification patterns used by members of the tribe.

Traditionally, these wooden masks were used in a series of initiation rituals by the Ngbaka people of present-day Democratic Republic of Congo. Known as ‘Gaza’, meaning ‘that which gives strength’, these ceremonies followed a period of seclusion for the young men involved, assisted by former initiates, or ‘Bugaza’, as they prepared for adult life.

Dimensions:
Height: 12.6 in (32 cm)
Width: 8.67 in (22 cm)
Depth: 3.94 in (10 cm)

More Information

Origin:	Central African Republic
Period:	1900-1919
Condition:	Good.
Styles / Movements:	Tribal, Modern
Incollect Reference #:	786388

Dimensions

W.	8.7 in;	H.	19 in;	D.	4 in;
W.	22.1 cm;	H.	48.26 cm;	D.	10.16 cm;

Message from Seller:

Kulik Selzer specializes in curating modern libraries on visual culture and design, as well as sourcing exceptional pieces of modern design and decorative arts. Viewings are available by appointment at our showrooms in London and Rancho Santa Fe. Contact us at 858.269.2422 or email babette@kulikselzer.com.