Bakota

This African Mask Bakota originates from Gabon in West Africa, made by a proud tribesman from the Bakota tribe.

This African mask has been intricately metal worked with brass and wood. A Bakota mask would be used for festivity and celebration. The Bakota are noted for their copper and brass reliquary guardian figures, which are part of a powerful religious and mystical order known as Bwete. The African Mask Bakota Statue would usually feature the characteristics of an elderly man with a small beard, whereas in this case the missing beard and side locks would point to this statue being a woman.  The exaggerated fore head and large hair style would symbolize her strength. The Bakota Mask has the significance of Kingship, a ceremonial tribal mask representing the longevity and reign of the King. The true meaning of Bakota is unclear, however it may be derived from the word kota, which means to bind/to attach/to link, hereby suggesting they view themselves as a united people bound by a common fate.