Suku Hemba helmet mask
€295.00
Important carved wooden helmet mask with a strongly stylised face highlighted with pale kaolin, narrow eyes, a powerful projecting nose and an open mouth revealing carved teeth. A tiered sculptural coiffure crowns the head, while a series of perforations along the lower edge would originally have secured costume elements or fibre attachments.
Among the Suku of southwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo, hemba helmet masks were notably associated with the mukanda initiation cycle marking the transition of boys into adulthood. In this setting, the mask formed part of a broader performative ensemble combining costume, dance, music and initiatory teaching, accompanying the symbolic transformation of the novice.
The contrast between the dark wooden surface and the pale kaolin strongly enhances the expression of the face. Its vigorous modelling, open mouth and architectural coiffure give this example a particularly commanding sculptural presence.
Shipping fees
02742
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- 2nd half XXth
- Size
- 37 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Condition
- Excellent
Important carved wooden helmet mask with a strongly stylised face highlighted with pale kaolin, narrow eyes, a powerful projecting nose and an open mouth revealing carved teeth. A tiered sculptural coiffure crowns the head, while a series of perforations along the lower edge would originally have secured costume elements or fibre attachments.
Among the Suku of southwestern Democratic Republic of the Congo, hemba helmet masks were notably associated with the mukanda initiation cycle marking the transition of boys into adulthood. In this setting, the mask formed part of a broader performative ensemble combining costume, dance, music and initiatory teaching, accompanying the symbolic transformation of the novice.
The contrast between the dark wooden surface and the pale kaolin strongly enhances the expression of the face. Its vigorous modelling, open mouth and architectural coiffure give this example a particularly commanding sculptural presence.