1609 6296 Old circular mask, Teke, Rep of Congo (5633803384)

This old mask displays excellent signs of age and use and continues to maintain its integrity even with erosion and village repair. Measures 40x42x7cm

Originally adorned with a ring of feathers and a collar of raffia fiber, this variety of mask was worn in acrobatic performances. The circular mask is divided into two parts at the level of the eye slits–an upper half that protrudes slightly outward and a sunken lower half–yet the overall dynamic relief pattern disguises the two levels dominated by large eyes that unite the two planes and various facial features with scarification or lunar crests arching along the edges.

Teke Masks are worn by members of the Kidumu society either during the funerals of chiefs, or weddings or important meetings. They are circular in Shape, are bisected by a horizontal stripe and are decorated with geometric designs filled with black, white and red pigments The tribal arts of Africa, Jean-Baptiste Bacquart

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Ann Porteus Sidewalk Tribal Gallery 19-21 Castray Esplanade, Battery Point 7004 Hobart Tasmania Australia ann@sidewalkgallery.com.au sidewalktribal.com t: 613 6224 0331