Polychrome Double Mask, BaLuba, Belgian Congo

1935

Walker Evans

Associated Names
Walker Evans

Artist, American, 1903 - 1975

The sculpture features a stylized human figure with a prominent head and layered neck. The head is oval with closed eyes, a broad nose, and a closed mouth, topped with a small circular bun-like feature. The torso is decorated with striped patterns extending vertically and horizontally, giving it a textured appearance. The sculpture is primarily rendered in contrasting shades of gray, with some darker stripes suggesting embellishments. It appears to be made of wood or a similar material and has an intricate design implying cultural or ritualistic significance. The abstract design and geometric forms give the sculpture an imposing presence and suggest grandeur or importance.
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Artwork overview


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Mr. and Mrs. Samuel A. Stern, Washington, DC; gift to NGA, 1991.

Associated Names

Inscriptions

lower right verso: Evans estate stamp with inventory number XX-459 added in graphite; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: 1/26; center verso in graphite: 459 / 12

Wikidata ID

Q64171912

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