Face Mask of the Kota, "Emboli"

Gabon, 95.5 cm (3' 2")

The present exceptionally large and rare Emboli mask of the Kota is distinguished by its monumental appearance and its distinctive, highly expressive sculptural language. Particularly characteristic is the imposing, sword-like central crest, which is interpreted as an exaggerated representation of the pronounced sagittal crest of a gorilla's skull.
Four prominently modelled eyebrows extend from the central crest and merge into the projecting nasal structure. Below them are a protruding mouth and a pronounced chin beard, which also served as a handle for the masked dancer. The downcast gaze lends the face an introspective, almost meditative expression, creating a striking contrast with the powerful, monumental design.
Particularly remarkable is the division of the mask's face into black and white sections, symbolically interpreted as representing the opposition between life and death.
Emboli embodies a forest spirit and plays an important role in the initiation rites of young people. The emergence of the Emboli masked dancer from the forest was an impressive and awe-inspiring event, intended to instil respect for the established social order while intimidating the uninitiated. The imposing appearance of the mask reinforced the authority and mysterious power of the spirit it represented.
The exceptional size, powerful sculptural execution, and symbolically charged colour scheme make this Emboli mask a particularly impressive and rare example of traditional Kota mask-making artistry.

Provenance: Michel Poulin, France; Private Collection of Gerhard F. Vesely, Austria

Estimate: € 12000 - 18000