African Baluba Wood Brass Beaded Mask Luba Handmade Ceremonial Bantu Art

This is an Antique Hand Carved Wood Baluba Mask of the Luba tribe of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Some of the most dazzling masks come from the Luba, or Baluba people. Luba masks are easily recognizable by their intricate patterns of colorful bead work, hammered brass and bronze built on a round wooden base. Though they exhibit exceptional craftsmanship and artistry, these masks are not created as art, but for their supernatural powers. Wearing these masks during ceremonies and rituals, a dancer enters a trance and channels messages from the Luba people's ancestors. Each mask represents a specific spirit, some benevolent, others malevolent; and the Luba believe that these spirits inhabit the wearer’s body during the ceremony. Beautifully hand crafted mask * Please view pictures to note a crack that's only noticeable when looking from the inside which I think ads charm * 11"H x 9.5"W x 4.5"D Thank you, for supporting my small business! Comes from SMOKE free PET free home