This first image is a Zoomorphic Mask from Angola dating back to about 750 CE. It is made very expertly of wood, carved into the shape then polished over with a sandpaper-like surfaced substance. Because the mask needed to be so precise, very specific tools were used by expert craftsmen. Notice the elongated snout, most likely implemented to serve the purpose of covering the wearer’s face. The pointed ears were possibly meant to draw attention to the upper part of the piece as well as emphasize awareness of the wearer’s surroundings. The mask employs the recurring geometric, symmetry motif as well. There are over 750 similar mask pieces found in the Kongo River Valley, and most that exist today are replicas due to wood’s tendency to rot over time.

The second image shown is of  Decorated Textile from the Kongo, early in the 17th century. During the time period and in the area, textiles were extremely valuable. Along with baskets and nobility regalia, it was collected and even used as currency. Later on, it was also displayed in funerary rituals. Part of the reason these textiles were of such great worth was the pure cotton material as well as–often– the gold threads woven into textiles like this one. The pattern is definitely and purposefully geometric adding to the aesthetic value in contrast with previous stylized artwork.

Although the mask was very useful and often difficult to make, it was not as valuable as the textiles were to the area and time period. The former was used for practical purposes, the latter was used as anything from decoration to a collectible.