Metoko mask
Mysteries of the Congolese East
Eastern DR Congo was the crucible of a large production of masks linked to initiation rites including the Lega, the Kumu and, as seen here, the Yela Kela. These ethnic groups have borrowed from the Lega the initiatory structure of the Bwami and have simplified it at the level of the ranks but not necessarily in the codification and the unfolding of the rites which can be very complex.
This African wooden Yela Kela mask surprises with the wide streaks that run from top to bottom and with the presence of reddish colored pigment. This almost simian face with its elongated mouth and round eyes marks the vagueness of the border between the world of men and that of the spirits of the bush.
01771
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 32 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Excellent
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Mysteries of the Congolese East
Eastern DR Congo was the crucible of a large production of masks linked to initiation rites including the Lega, the Kumu and, as seen here, the Yela Kela. These ethnic groups have borrowed from the Lega the initiatory structure of the Bwami and have simplified it at the level of the ranks but not necessarily in the codification and the unfolding of the rites which can be very complex.
This African wooden Yela Kela mask surprises with the wide streaks that run from top to bottom and with the presence of reddish colored pigment. This almost simian face with its elongated mouth and round eyes marks the vagueness of the border between the world of men and that of the spirits of the bush.