Pende Deformity Mask

Democratic Republic of Congo

Mid 20th c

12 inches high x 8 1/2 inches wide

Ex: Sam Hilu, New York

$ 1,850

Inv. # A3757

The Pende deformity mask known as “Mbangu,” represents a highly regarded hunter who has been stricken with facial paralysis.  The Pende believe that the individual was the victim of sorcery, bewitched by a rival who inflicted him with disease.  The black and white division refers to the scars of a person who fell into a fire due to epilepsy or some other medical condition.  The face is twisted and distorted on one side due to a paralysis of the facial nerve.

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