3D AFRICAN MASKS

0x4…b5e

ERC1155

The P(h)ende people, know as Mupende for singularity and Bapende for the plural version, are an ethnic group in the South-Western Democratic Republic of Congo. The Pende are divided into two cultural groups: the Eastern Pende and the Western Pende. Though distinct they consider themselves part of the same ethnic group. The number of people who consider themselves to be Pende are estimated to be over 250,000. The Pende speak their own language called Kipende and are particularly known for their artistic works. They are considered to be similar in culture to their neighboring ethnic groups namely Yaka and Suku people. Pende originally lived in the strip between the Atlantic Ocean and the Cuanza River in modern-day Angola. They migrated to their current region of the modern-day Democratic Republic of the Congo around 1620. Pende masks are among the most dramatic works of all African art. Like the Yaka, small Pende masks fit over the head, helmet-style. Representing the mysterious powers to which boys are introduced at initiation. Pende masks are worn in comic entertainments performed during the ceremonies. The masks have facial forms that repeat the angular pattern established by the heavy triangular eyelids, and they are topped by a bushy coif of raffia. Today the Pende mask represents maturity.