Artist:Kota (Mahongwe subgroup)NkareMboko
Medium: Wood, pigment
Geograhical Locations:
Dates:late 19th century
Dimensions: 14 x 6 x 9 in. (35.6 x 15.2 x 22.9 cm)
Collections:
Exhibitions:
Accession Number: 52.160
Image: 52.160_PS2.jpg,
Catalogue Description: A wooden mask made up of geometric planes, revealing tool marks on the surface overall. The crescent-shaped face projects outward at the top and comes to a point. Below it, brows arch above the eyes and move downward to a sharp point at the center. A medial ridge moves from the top of the mask to the bridge of the nose. The mask's chin moves slightly upward to a point. Between the overhanging scalloped brows and upturned chin are carved angular features in high relief. Below the brows are two hollowed-out block-shaped eyes. A nose widens gradually as it moves from the bridge of its triangular form to its base. Near the base on the outside of each nostril is a small hole drilled towards the inside of the nose. Below the nose is a small solid block-shaped mouth. The overall surface of the mask has traces of black and red-orange pigment. The left side of the face, unlike the right, has been rubbed with white lime. At the back of the mask is a hollow rectangular opening for the wearer's head with two square openings for his eyes.