The BaLuba of the southern part of the Congo empire was founded in 1585. At its, peak over 1 million people paid tribute to the Luba king. At the end of the 19th century the empire collapsed when the Belgian colonials took control. A secret society the Bambudye, kept the memory of their great Luba empire alive and bonded the diverse populations together. Still today tribal rituals and celebrations are of the utmost importance for the Luba. They reinforce age old traditions and promote tribal pride. Ceremonial paraphernalia such as costuming, masks and instruments are still deeply spiritualized and the performers and assorted actors are honored to perform.      

Older Luba art selections are especially cherished by the Luba and outside collectors. The wooden facial covering on display is truly an unusual find. It is quite normal for Luba masks to feature small holes around its perimeter to support costume attachments. In some instances a raffia or cotton netting will be found attached to the back region which serve as an additional part of the formal tribal dress.  A much less common feature found is a carved mask with a wooden frontal collar that extends downward covering the neck. This additional appendage adds extra support to the dancers costume and in this case allows for a raffia frill!

Our mask was used in tribal ceremony and was created sometime in the early to mid 20th century. The condition is very good. We are very pleased to be able to offer such a worthy selection.

Please click photo for enlargement!

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Dimensions: 7 inches wide x 12 inches tall x 4 1/2 inches deep

Age: Early to late 20th century     

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