African art: Rare Worn Hand Carved Mbole Mask D.R Congo - eBay, Other Antiques, Antiques. (end time 20-Dec-09 16:30:56 AEDST)

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Mask, Mbole People, Democratic Republic of Congo

This Mbole mask is a very good piece. It has a worn encrusted patina of Kaolin and natural pigments, is hand carved from softwood and measures 37 x 17.5cm. It is in good condition, collected in 2001 and shows signs of use and age. It can be supplied with the stand pictured.

Mbole masks are rare and only worn during circumcision ceremonies and during the funeral of a Lilwa society dignatory. They are ovel shaped and covered with natural pigments suggesting a human face.
Their art forms and certain linguistic patterns indicate a degree of shared history with the Yela and Pere.
Governing among the Mbole is directed by the village chief, a chosen village elder, who has attained a high status in the Lilwa society. This society, the primary initiation and education organization of all males and some females, effectively trains all young men to be responsible members of society. The eldest of each lineage normally represents it in village politics. Villages are autonomous, but may elect an area chief to represent several villages on issues that concern them all. Female political power is maintained through residence rules, which encourage a man to live in the village of his wife. The wife's brother also plays an important role in the education of the children. If a community law is broken, the transgressor is publicly reprimanded, with the most severe punishment being hanging and burial in an unmarked, unremembered grave.

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This item is made by hand, may be old and used. Wear and imperfections are expected. It is described to the best of our ability and any damage will be visible in the images. If you are unsure of the item condition please email for further images or detail before bidding.

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Since its inception in 1989 Sidewalk Gallery has become a renowned Tribal Arts Gallery. Specialising in Antique & Traditional African Sculpture representing more than 85 separate cultures collected from 26 countries across Africa.

Ethnic jewellery and other items of adornment , both antique & contemporary, from every continent continues to astound all who enter the gallery.
The collection is spectacular.

Postage and handling

Item location: Hobart, Tasmania, Australia

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Postage and handling	To	Service	Estimated delivery*
AU $20.00	Australia	Regular	3-8 business days after seller receives cleared payment

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Will usually post within 2 business days of receiving cleared payment.	Domestic: AU $20.00 Optional International: Not offered

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