RED AND WHITE MASK PROBABLY NGBAKA, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

the mask modelled with two concave planes bisected by incised lines running down the centre of the face from the forehead to the chin, the forehead with a rounded convex surface, centred with a triangular protrusion to house the nose, between two oval apertures for the eyes and above a smaller one for the mouth, divided into four main registers and applied with (white) powdered kaolin and reddish earth or powdered red camwood, tukala

Philippe Laeremans, Brussels.
A private collection, Brussels.

Excellent condition overall. The pigment on the front of the mask encrusted and layered indicating ritual use within the culture. Old attachment holes encircling the rim.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The form of this somewhat enigmatic mask suggests it originates amongst the Ngbaka people of northern Democratic Republic of the Congo. The features are carved on two concave planes, bisected by the incised lines which run through the centre of the face, flaring out on the triangular nose and running along the top of the eyebrow. Together with the bi-chromatic colour, achieved by the application of (white) powdered kaolin and reddish earth or powdered red camwood, known as tukula, this linear decoration emphasizes the depth of the planes of the face to great effect.