Baluba Masks

by

Ali Jamal

If  you buy an Afrikan mask, learn about it.  Don't just place on the wall and decorate your place, gain an understanding of the rich history that can be revealed with just a few clicks on your mouse.  

The Baluba masks come from the Luba, a Bantu people from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.  The Luba people speak Swahili among many other dialects of Luba.  Like other masks, the Baluba masks are used for rituals and celebrations.  As you look at the masks pictured here, recognize the exquisite detail and stunning metals that adorn the borders of each.

Personally, I own two Baluba masks and anxious to learn more and more about them.  Just from observation, there is bound to be an amazing story or reason for every color, bead, shiny metal, the obvious open mouth, tight eyes, and so on.