Congolese Pende People Mask: "Giphogo"
Collection: Spiritual Connections
Object Category: Masks
Object Type: Ritual Masks
Country: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Continent: Africa
Geographic Region: Middle Africa
Materials: Wood
width: 5 in;
height: 14 in;
depth: 4 in
This Congolese Eastern Pende People "giphogo" mask combines the features of a human with antelope horns, shown fused into a diamond shape. Giphogo animal masks are used in the initiation rituals during which boys live out in the bush and act out the behavior of certain animals including antelopes. This type of mask is also used in masquerades to represent an animal spirit.
Source:
https://www.hamillgallery.com/PENDE/EasternPendeMasks/EasternPendeMasks.html
https://www.pagodared.com/items/painted-pende-mask
https://www.trocadero.com/stores/jacknelis/items/1403985/Giphogo-Mask-Eastern-Pende-Congo