Product Details
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- Pende Mbangu Illness Mask, DCR Congo #77
- Measurements: 48cm; 19" height approx.
- Condition:Very Good
- Composition: Wood. Fibers. Iron nails.
Condition: Very Good. Patina of Wear and Ritual Use. - This Mask is recognized by an opposition of black and white that bisects the face and a general distortion of facial features specifically the twisted
nose and mouth. The color white, symbolic of the Spirits of the Dead, in this case represents the Hope of being Cured of Illness. The black pigment
stands for the Sickness and Illness that ravages one throughout Life. The combination of black against white symbolizes this Struggle. It is very rare in
Africa to find any work of art that depicts an individual stricken by sickness, infirmity or any type of disease. - It is believed that disease can be brought about by an Act Offending Spirits of Ancestors and is often viewed as a punishment. Thus, many objects
showing disease are used to instruct the Community and to caution against destructive behavior. This is especially true of Masks, which are danced
to teach or remind members of the community about rules and responsibilities. A selection of Nigerian Ibibio and Congolese Pende Masks underline the connection between disease and moral values. - Disease is also attributed to Sorcery. Sorcerers are believed to be capable of activating Malevolent Forces against Individuals, Families or the
Community, often in the form of Physical or Mental Illness.
Forming a sharp contrast with Sculptures showing the Ideal of Health, other Figures and Masks represent a range of physical deformities caused by
disease and mental imbalance.
The Mbangu Mask is a variation on the representation of a highly regarded Hunter who has been stricken with facial paralysis. It demonstrates how
even the most esteemed and upright member of the community can unexpectedly be afflicted with sickness. In this case, the Pende believe that the
individual is a Victim of Sorcery, bewitched by a rival who jealously inflicted him with disease. This mask teaches Pende audiences about the rewards
of good behavior and of the pitfalls of those who are morally flawed. (Sources: To Cure and Protect)
