This fine Luba animal mask, depicting a baboon with a powerful expression, is part of a series of masks created by Luba artists in the 1960s. These masks depicted animals from the surrounding forest areas, and were used in traditional dance ceremonies.
The mask has been carved from a medium/light wood, which has been decorated with white natural pigments now mostly faded and worn. An array of bird feathers adorns the top of the mask, and fetish holes feature at the back. Attached to the mask is the original bark fibre costume.
Estimated Period: C. 1960's (Or Before)
LAMDE00
(Click on images to enlarge)
