Biombo Wood Mask Congo

Overall Condition: Fair. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.

Damage/Repair: Cracked face, surface wear.

The Biombo live just to the south of the confluence of the Lulua and Kasai Rivers, and mingle with both the Kuba and Eastern Pende, who have greatly influenced the appearance of their masks. Reportedly they use their masks during or after circumcision ceremonies. Though this mask shows both Pende and Kuba influence, it has a style all its own, distinct from that of their neighbors. The rectangular mouth even shows elements of the Songye, and is atypical for the Biombo, who normally craft small, pointed, tubular mouths for their masks.