Pende Mask "mbangu" Or Disease Mask, Democratic Republic Of Congo

Pende "mbangu" mask or disease mask.
Pende culture, Democratic Republic of Congo. (formerly Belgian Congo, formerly Zaire)
African PENDE Mbangu "disease" masks, also called Bwala-Bwala, exaggerate the symptoms of disorders such as epilepsy or facial paralysis, often attributed to witchcraft practices.
h.34 cm
w. 21 cm

The Pende are particularly known for their art, which is complex and includes traditional masks, associated with initiation rituals. Artists play an important role in society; they are considered as important as nobles and receive the first portion of food from the harvest as a gift. This privilege is generally reserved for clan leaders.
The Pende carve many types of masks, most of which are associated with education and initiation rituals. In the northwest part of the territory, wooden figures are carved. Carved stools, staffs, chairs, and swords are used by chiefs and other important people to signify their power