Antique African Ngbaka Hand-Carved Wooden Dance Mask Northwest Congo c. 1900-20s

Description

Antique African Ngbaka Tribal Hand-Carved Wooden Dance Mask with the Original
Paint,
Northwest Congo Region, Prob. 1900-1920's
This early African dance mask is attributed to the Ngbaka Tribal group of the northwestern Congo River region (now within Republic of Congo).
This authentic example is defined by simple bold sculptural form and retains the original red and black painted surface emphasized by white outlining of the mouth, nose, and upper eyelids. This mask possesses a wonderful patina and untouched dry surface.  There is significant patina on the back, and some wear and loss of paint around the edges of the front.  There are four holes along both right and left edges for attachment during use.  Note, there is
an old label attached to the mask reading "Nquawaka / Zaire" that may be an alternate spelling of Ngbaka, which is a known tribal entity in that part of Africa.
This piece is undeniably a powerful sculptural statement, and it speaks to the complexity of beliefs and usage surrounding ceremonial objects in the equatorial regions of Africa.  It is also one of the earliest and most untouched African objects I have encountered.
Dimensions:  11-3/4" tall x 6-1/2" wide x 5" deep
Condition:  Very Good.  No breaks or repairs.  Original paint and patina undisturbed.  Shows expected general wear, mostly along edges from long usage and minor insect damage (see photos).