Congo Pende Mask
COUNTRY: CONGO
ETHNIC GROUP: PENDE
MATERIALS: WOOD, PIGMENT
WIDTH: 18"
This is a Panya Ngombe mask which is reserved for chiefs. Although the mask has almost vanished, sculptors continue to represent it in the lintel of the door to the the chief's ritual house. Some, like this one, are made for the international art market.
The design of this mask combines surreal and cubist elements. Picasso, Mattisse and others were inspired by African masks and some art critics believe that cubism was heavily influenced by African art. This is a particularly nice example because of the symmetry and grace of the carving.
Congo Pende Mask
COUNTRY: CONGO
ETHNIC GROUP: PENDE
MATERIALS: WOOD, PIGMENT
WIDTH: 18"
This is a Panya Ngombe mask which is reserved for chiefs. Although the mask has almost vanished, sculptors continue to represent it in the lintel of the door to the the chief's ritual house. Some, like this one, are made for the international art market.
The design of this mask combines surreal and cubist elements. Picasso, Mattisse and others were inspired by African masks and some art critics believe that cubism was heavily influenced by African art. This is a particularly nice example because of the symmetry and grace of the carving.