Mask

Lwalwa, Dem. Rep. of Congo
Early 20th c.

Provenance: Unter Family collection NYC, acquired in the 1970’s 

Lwalwa masks have consistent features: an enlarged nose, a headdress decorated with Geometric motifs, elongated eyes ending at the temple scarifications, a projecting mouth and pointed chin.  This mask was used for the ritual of ngongo, the final part of the first initiation, of the circumcision ceremony. This example is in fine condition and exhibits a dark and varied surface.