Rare Early to Mid 20th Century African Bena Lulua Mask Kasai Region

Rare Early to Mid 20th Century African Bena Lulua Mask Kasai Region

A rare Bena Lulua mask from the Kasai region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, dating to the early to mid 20th century. While the Lulua are celebrated for some of Central Africa's most accomplished sculptural traditions, masks from this culture are encountered considerably less often than their renowned ancestor figures, making authentic examples increasingly scarce.

The piece shows a calm and introspective expression, elegantly elongated eyes and a striking architectural coiffure, enriched with finely incised geometric ornament. A beautiful patina reveals decades of age and careful handling. More than an ethnographic object, the mask possesses a remarkable sculptural presence.

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ORNAMENTUM - where we find perfection in imperfection, love a good patina and are always on the lookout for wonderful and unique pieces both vintage and antique. We are based in Tilburg, The Netherlands.