It is believed that disease can be brought about by an act offending spirits of ancestors and is often viewed as a punishment. Thus, many objects showing disease are used to instruct the community and to caution against destructive behavior. This is especially true of masks, which are danced to teach or remind members of the community about rules and responsibilities. A selection of Nigerian Ibibio and Congolese Pende masks underline the connection between disease and moral values.
Disease is also attributed to sorcery. Sorcerers are believed to be capable of activating malevolent forces against individuals, families or the community, often in the form of physical or mental illness.
Forming a sharp contrast with sculptures showing the ideal of health, other figures and masks represent a range of physical deformities caused by disease and mental imbalance. (Refer to photo of mbangu mask.)
The mbangu mask is a variation on the representation of a highly regarded hunter who has been stricken with facial paralysis. It demonstrates how even the most esteemed and upright member of the community can unexpectedly be afflicted with sickness. In this case, the Pende believe that the individual is a victim of sorcery, bewitched by a rival who jealously inflicted him with disease. This mask teaches Pende audiences about the rewards of good behavior and of the pitfalls of those who are morally flawed.
