Ngbandi (Gbandi, Mogwandi), Democratic Republic of the Congo

Initiation gaza mask. A number of different tribes including Ngbandi (120,000) live in the northwest DRC, in a forest and plain area between the Ubangi and the Middle Lualaba rivers. They have a complex system of initiation, gaza “that which gives strength.” Future initiates had to undergo trials of physical endurance and would attain a first level of knowledge by means of song and corporeal techniques. In the rites of passage, recreations of ancestors played an important role. Circumcision and excision took place after several months spent outside the village. A final celebration marked their integration into the community. The artistic style of their masks, which are related to the Ngbaka, is mostly recognizable through a line of vertical scarification on forehead and sometimes on nose. They were worn for society ceremonies.

Material:  wood

Size:   H. 13”, W. 8”, D. 6 ½”

Price: $210 + $32 (S&H)          [#B8N9M931]