All items carefully packed & shipped after payment received & cleared via PayPal. Unless otherwise specified in the item description, shipping to the U.S. will generally be via USPS Priority Mail, USPS Parcel Post, or UPS. Expedited shipping upgrade is available & optional. Will ship worldwide, with international shipping rates to be determined by buyer's location. Insurance optional/additional. Seller not responsible for any damages incurred during shipping nor for any Customs-related fees for non-U.S. shipments.

Description:

On offer from our personal collection is a superb passport mask from the Yombe/Bakongo peoples of the DR Congo.

Among their varied uses, with their smaller size, passport masks may be presented as a form of identification for its owner; & the masks may also receive libations & offerings, enriching their surface patina. The face mask-sized counterparts to these pieces are known as Nganga divination masks. The diviners are believed to have special powers, enabling them to determine the causes of various events & circumstances within the tribal community - including illness, natural disasters, etc. These masks are thought to represent the diviners who wear them.

Despite some imperfections, including scrapes, old chips along the back rim, & evidence of old insect damage (arrested), this striking mask is in good overall condition. The piece shows considerable age- & use-related wear. Makes a wonderful display.