Vintage African Ndemba mask from Kwango Province, D. R. Congo, 1973. This mask was used in a Makishi initiation ceremony for young boys of the village near Ndinga in 1973. The ceremony culminated in a dance by masked figures. The collector did not attend the ceremony but heard drumming in the night. This mask was worn that night. The collector was told that new masks are made for every initiation ceremony. The collector can share some additional details if desired.
Made of painted wood, cloth and native grass. This is in excellent condition, other than the handle which is damaged.
The grass portion is 20" wide x 23" tall. The face is 7" tall x 5.5" wide. Total height of face with antlers is 22" tall.