Stunning one-of-a-kind African Kuba Bushoong wood mask, 40 x 38 cm, good cond

  

African Kuba Bushoong wood mask, 40 x 38 cm, mid XX-century, good condition. This is a rare, powerful mask from the Kuba people of the Congo. There are few examples like this one in the world.

This female mask danced by a man wearing a woman's costume appeared in the chief's enclosure or at the palace, usually in the company of zomorphic masks. Impressive for the structure above it, a basket frame covered with battered and tinted bark fibres, and by its decoration of shells, pearls and raffia, this mask has a ploychrome surface characteristic of the Kuba groups. The Kuba kingdom was founded in the 16th century by the Bushoong which are still ruled today by a king. More than twenty types of tribal masks are used in the Kuba or " lightning people", with meanings and functions that vary from group to group.

The ritual ceremonies were an opportunity to display the decorative arts and masks, in order to honor the spirit of the deceased or to honor the king. Three types of masks related to Kuba mythological history have been associated with dances that take place in the royal compound, for funerals, inductions, or for circumcisions: the first, called Moshambwooy, represents Woot, the founder of the Bushoong subtribe, the hero of culture. The second, known Nady Amwaash (Ngaady Un Mwash), plays Woot's wife/sister, a character who was reportedly introduced to give more importance to the role of women. The third mask is Bwoom.

A fantastic addition to any serious collection. This item is in the category "Collectibles\Cultures & Ethnicities\African\1900-Now\Masks". The seller is "micjan_57" and is located in this country: US. This item can be shipped to United States.

1. Provenance: Ownership History Available
2. Country/Region of Manufacture: Congo
3. Culture: African
4. Handmade: Yes
5. Modified Item: No