Songye House Mask Congo Rohner Collection

Many groups in the greater Congo region and elsewhere use art to address the contingencies of everyday life through the activities of local priests or diviners, known as Nganga. Among the Songye of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, sculptural forms played an important role in religious and community practices, often serving as intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds. Songye art is recognized for its bold geometric forms, strong linear carving, and distinctive facial proportions.

This well-carved Songye House Mask showcases these characteristic features, with deeply incised lines covering the surface, a prominent geometric face, projecting features, and a strongly sculptural form. The carving reflects the Songye preference for powerful, stylized forms that emphasize the relationship between the physical object and the spiritual forces it may represent. In Songye communities, spiritually adept Nganga used rituals, secret formulas, divination, and specialized objects to address matters such as healing, protection, and malevolent forces. Sculptures associated with these practices could serve as a nexus between the diviner, the community, and the spirit world. This unusual and expressive carving comes from the Rohner Collection and displays a richly aged surface consistent with its history and use.

Provenance: John R. Rohner Collection
Rohner, a museum curator for decades, aimed his practiced eye for authenticity to African art beginning in the early 1980s. His passion for this art only grew through the decades he built his collection––always with an aim for a broad and representative array of pieces. The collection appears in his book, Art Treasures from African Runners (2000, University Press of Colorado). 

Damage and repair: Surface wear, scratches, and areas of discoloration throughout from age and use. Small chips, losses, and minor cracks are present, particularly along the edges and raised areas. Old insect damage and small holes are also visible. No major repairs are apparent. Please see photos for details.

Item #472 on pg. 202

157356

Approximate Age: 20th Century
People: Songye
Country of Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo

Material: wood

Damage/Repair: Surface wear, scratches, and areas of discoloration throughout from age and use. Small chips, losses, and minor cracks are present, particularly along the edges and raised areas. Old insect damage and small holes are also visible. No major repairs are apparent. Please see photos for details.
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.