African
Masks
Kota
Mask
The
Kota are noted for their sculptural figures which are
called ‘mbulu-ngulu’.
Kota
figures are carved in wood and covered with sheets of
brass or copper to increase their power.
Kota
figures have very stylised heads and simplified lozenge
shaped bodies. Their faces are oval with a convex surface
to represent males or a concave surface to represent females.
Some figures have faces on both sides of the head.
We
call these Kota statues guardian or reliquary figures
as they protect the relics of an ancestor that are contained
in a box, basket or bundle called the ‘Bwete’.
The
Kota revere the relics of their ancestors as they believe
that they can call on their power to assist them with
their troubles in this life.
The
Kota are several different groups of people who share
a similar culture. The word 'kota' means to bind or link
together - an appropriate name to unite a tribe.
The
Kota are a peace loving people who live in an area that
stretches from East Gabon into the Congo.
Mouse
over the map for a more detailed view of Kota territory.
Kota
Mask Drawing
You
can click on the sketch above to view a simplified A4
line drawing
which you may use to help you draw or trace this mask
design. |
