About the Art : Gabonese Kota Mask Figure (Guardian / Reliquary figure)
 
This finely carved Kota mask figure is overlaid with contrasting copper and brass and combines shimmering surfaces with minimal depiction of physical features and body, and has an imaginative elaboration of the head.
 
The Kota figure includes geometric shapes, stylized and exaggerated features and with a somewhat realistically detailed face. Made by the Bakota Tribe in Gabon, it is used to communicate with the ancestors and is used during a tribal chief's funeral ceremony. The Kota is usually placed within close proximity of his body along with other decorative metals such as brass and copper which depicts his power and authority.
 
Also used in agrarian rites by the Gabonese people to promote fertility, provide spiritual protection and express cultural identity. Interestingly enough this figure type mask can sometimes also express fluid gender concepts, with male dancers wearing masks that depict female faces.

Composition : Indigenous Wood, Copper and Brass
Country of Origin : Gabon
Dimensions : Height x Width x Depth : 21'' x 9.5'' x 1''
Weight : 2 lbs