Pende Panya Ngombe Bull Mask

Masks from the Pende people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are considered some of the most dramatic works of African art. The Pende have defined an extensive range of mask forms, many with distinct characters embodied during ritual ceremony. This elongated panya ngombe mask represents the wild cow/bull, an animal with chiefly associations and a symbol of strength and power. The mask would have been worn by a performer donned in regal attire and featured as a part of initiation ceremonies. We love the graceful sweep of the bull's narrow eyes and brows, ending in a diminutive mouth.