Zoomorphic mask called Panya Ngombe
Pende culture, Democratic Republic of Congo
First half of the 20th century
Wood and pigments
Height: 26 cm; Width: 32 cm
(old restoration)

This mask, carved from a single block of wood and tapering at the chin, features large, openwork eyes shaped like coffee beans. It sports a stylized beard, engraved with a sawtooth pattern and highlighted with black and white kaolin pigments. Its rectangular mouth—almost suggesting a hiss—protrudes slightly.
It has long ears pigmented with red ochre. The entire forehead and the design of the mask are entirely worked in a triangular checkerboard pattern.

Panya Ngombe refers to the buffalo or wild cow – a symbol of prestige and high rank. It danced during the Mukanda, the initiation of young boys. When not dancing, it adorned the huts of chiefs or dignitaries, thus distinguishing their homes.

Origins:
- Private collection, Paris.
- Acquired in 2009 by the former collector from the Philippe Lange gallery, Brussels.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON

Ref.: 7294