African Mbole White Kaolin Mask Lengola Congo Handmade Inititation Ceremonial Status Ritual Abstract Mbole Mask

This is a very unique White Kaolin Ceremonial Mask from the Mbole Tribe of the Legola People in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A ceremony mask which is carved in wood, white Kaolin and partly blackened. The Lengola people are living on the left bank of the Zaire River and number about 100,000. Several ethnicities are found in this region, like the Mbole, the Yela, and the Metoko, and among them it is difficult to distinguish since their social structure is similar. They make their living from banana farming and hunting. The Butoka society regulates their social, political and economic activities. The Lengola had rituals of circumcision and initiation. Divided into lineages, they are very intricately crossed to the point where statues sculpted by one group may be found among another. These abstract, poly-chrome masks were used during the closing initiation rite, when the statues would be ceremonially brought out. Masks, somewhat influenced by Lega style, are also produced. This is a very interesting and one of a kind mask and would be a wonderful addition to your collection and home.

Shows some age and discoloration, but in good condition.

13" tall
5" wide
3 1/2" deep

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