28 - KIDUMU CIRCULAR MASK - Republic of the Congo, Gabon - Teke

KIDUMU CIRCULAR MASK - Republic of the Congo, Gabon - Teke First half of the 20th century. Wood, dark patina, pigments, raffia fibers. Dimensions: 43 cm. A flat, oval-shaped mask, divided horizontally by a wide, raised black central band, in the center of which stand out a small rectangular nose and two narrow horizontal slits for the eyes. The surface is entirely covered with an abstract design carved into the wood and highlighted with kaolin (motifs of crosses, triangles, and semicircles). These motifs form an esoteric language understandable only to initiates. The upper rim is adorned with bird feathers, and the lower part is trimmed with a beard of braided raffia. The Kidumu mask of the male secret society of the same name is emblematic of Teke art. It embodies nature spirits. When these masks were worn, the dancer would move by performing spectacular acrobatics and geometric movements that brought the mask’s design to life. Its complete feather adornment and beautiful, balanced patina make it a highly decorative piece. Research and documentation: Coryse Mwape – Art historian specializing in ancient African art. Internal ref: 1199