Democratic Republic of the Congo; Lele (Bashilele, Leele) peoples
Mask
Wood, pigment
H. 29 cm (11 3/8")
University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art, The Stanley Collection, X1990.602
In Africa, most art is created by people who understand that the path and meaning of life is determined by the supernatural world. The blessings or curses of the spirits can mean the difference between success and failure, health and disease, or peace and conflict. By maintaining balance between the human and supernatural worlds, the blessings of the spirits are secured and their unpredictable nature is controlled. Among many African peoples, misfortune, hardship, and conflict are regarded as states of instability. Such traits of life—often regarded as afflictions—are dealt with through art forms, such as this Lele mask, that help the invisible world of the spirits become visible and more manageable by humans. Through these healing devices, the spirits who control or counteract negative forces can help bring health and well-being back into a community.
