Boa Mask Congo

This marvelously expressive mask could be a recent example of a well-known mask type from the Boa people who live in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Other examples of Boa masks have large protruding round ears and either narrow slotted or rounded eyes. Because there are so few of these masks a stylistic standard has not yet been defined. Their art is known by only a few figures and harps and best known through a number of black, white and red painted masks. Boa art is also said to exhibit influences from their Mangbetu and Azande neighbors. The prominent nose separates the deeply undercut eyes over a narrow mouth with teeth described as simple cuts on the lips. Very little has been written about these masks and their main function seems to be limited to a men’s warrior society while others claim it danced in a men’s secret society. Though a late example of Boa style art this mask is a creative play on the geometry of the face.

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