Mukudj (1967-30-253)

3D Model

Originating in the southern area of what is today Gabon, this carved wooden mask depicts an idealized woman and is covered in red pigment and kaolin, a white clay found in riverbeds and associated with healing. While facial coverings are essential, mukudj masquerade is a fundamentally collaborative and communal activity involving gesture and oratory dating back to at least the early 19th century. Performed on stilts, mukudj is characterized by feats of acrobatic athleticism, the most notable being “tasdu,” the Ipunu term referring to the unique contortion in which the performer aligns his neck with his buttocks through an incredible backbend all while being raised into the air by his entourage. Mukudj performances have maintained their vibrancy and relevance for contemporary audiences by responding to socio-economic conditions.

Research Attribution: Dr. Hilary Whitham Sánchez