Home > Animals > Birds > Owls > African Wood Owl
Plank Mask, possibly early 1900s (wood, pigment)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Plank Mask, possibly early 1900s (wood, pigment)
500349 Plank Mask, possibly early 1900s (wood, pigment) by Congolese; h:46.00 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Among the Bembe, anthropo--zoomorphic plank masks are used in circumcision rites called butende. They are worn along with a costume of bark and banana leaves by the initiated boys who beg for food in the village while living in seclusion in the forest. The sculptures short projections above the forehead are identified as an owls tufts. The two pairs of eyes could refer to divination.
); Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund; African, out of copyright
Media ID 22911664
© Leonard C. Hanna, Jr. Fund / Bridgeman Images
Democratic Republic Of The Congo Mask Mixed Media Woodcarving Central Africa
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> Central African Republic
> Related Images
> Africa
> Democratic Republic of the Congo
> Related Images
> Africa
> Republic of the Congo
> Related Images
> Animals
> Birds
> Owls
> African Wood Owl
> Animals
> Birds
> Owls
> Barking Owl
> Animals
> Birds
> Owls
> Related Images
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Mixed media
> Sculpture
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Sculpture
> Mixed media artwork
> Arts
> Portraits
> Mixed media artwork
> Sculptures
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Cleveland
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> Congolese
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> School Byzantine
> Fine Art Finder
> Ethnography
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a Plank Mask, believed to be from the early 1900s, made by Congolese artisans. The mask, constructed out of wood and adorned with vibrant pigments, stands at an impressive height of 46 centimeters. Currently housed in the Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA, this artifact sheds light on the rich cultural traditions of the Bembe people. The Plank Mask holds great significance within Bembe society as it is utilized during circumcision rites known as butende. During these rituals, initiated boys wear the mask along with a costume made from bark and banana leaves. Living in seclusion within the forest, they venture into nearby villages to beg for food while donning this striking ensemble. Noteworthy features of this mask include short projections above its forehead that resemble owl tufts. Additionally, two pairs of eyes are incorporated into its design which may allude to divination practices among the Bembe community. This photograph not only captures the intricate craftsmanship and artistic expression evident in African tribal art but also provides valuable insights into Central African culture specifically within the Democratic Republic of Congo. As we admire this remarkable piece through time and space via Fine Art Finder's print collection by Bridgeman Images, we are reminded of humanity's diverse heritage and our shared fascination with ancient customs and artifacts.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
