People: Bembe
DR Congo
H: 11 1/4"
Of classical form, the mask with large ocular orbits, tiny nose and small mouth, the surface appears to have been washed in a ritual context. Geometric designs cut into the mask. A rare and fine example. On a custom base.
Provenance: Collected in Congo prior to 1970 by Lawson Mooney, former Director of Catholic Aid Agencies; Dr. Kenneth Adelman, former US Deputy Ambassador to the UN, and one time member of USAID, Zaire, c. 1975; A NY Private collection.