Kongo-Yombe Mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Boisgirard, Paris, February 19, 1968, lot 122, plate II
Wally and Udo Horstmann, Zug
Allan Stone, New York

Christie's, London, June 25, 1984, lot 118
Raoul Lehuard, Art Bakongo: les masques, Arnouville, 1993, pp. 842-843

Good condition for an object of this type and age. Both ears broken and glued. Marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, dents, small holes, age cracks, chips and minor losses throughout. An old inventory number "122" in red on reverse. Fine aged medium brown patina.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

According to the Belgian missionary Father Leo Bittremieux, who lived among the Yombe and is the source of much of the reliable early information regarding their culture and religious practices, Kongo-Yombe masks were worn by the nganga (ritual specialist) during some nkisi dances (Tollebeek 2010: 128).  

Early Kongo-Yombe masks are exceedingly rare. A related mask was collected at Loango by M. Vincent and given to the Musée de l'Homme, Paris, in 1892 (today Musée du quai Branly, inv. no. "92.62.4").