Bembe initiation mask (No. 29638)

Ex-belgian collection of african art. Base: included ethnic group: bembe country: congo large orbits associated with the owl's perceptive qualities distinguish this african mask. The discreet mouth and nose form tiny projections. These masks appeared during bwami ceremonies, and during circumcision and initiation rites. Polychrome matte patina. The bembe ethnic group is a luba branch that is said to have left the congo in the 18th century. Their society and artistic tendency are marked by the influence of neighboring ethnic groups in the lake tanganyika region, the lega, the buyu, etc. Indeed, like the lega, the bembe had a bwami association responsible for initiation and structuring society, but while the bwami was exclusive among the lega, other associations coexisted among the bembe. Evoking a forest spirit, this tribal mask was kept in sacred caves and was exhibited during festivals associated with hunting and ancestor worship. It also appeared during bwami circumcision ceremonies.