Pende Kiwoyo Muyombo Mask

A hand-carved wooden ceremonial mask of the Kiwoyo (or Giwoyo) Muyombo type from the Katundu region, a name that translates as "mask with a long beard". The chin panel is pierced around its edge for the attachment of raffia facial hair. The face has half-closed crescent-shaped eyes above a short nose, scarification marks incised in a V-shape on the lower cheeks, and an elongated chin decorated with incised triangles. A stiff canvas textile folded over a thick reed frame and sewn along the edges forms an arching headdress above the bulging brow. Pende masks served a range of ceremonial functions and represented distinct characters portrayed in dance.