Wood, Pigment

Origin: Central Africa (Democratic Republic of Congo region)

Interesting facts:

The name Babemba/Babembe means “the people of the lake.” 

A zoomorphic mask probably used as a hut mask in initiation ceremonies, with classical Bembe face and huge ocular orbits, in imitation of an owl. The eyes are especially interesting due to their distinct asymmetry.  The tapering face hosts an elongated narrow nose and slight marking for a mouth.

A notable patina with signs of age and use.