Yaka Kholuka Ndeemba Mask
African Yaka art - Masks and initiations
This initiation mask often appears in pairs, but differentiated. Theoretically, it is danced by a young person of privileged status. The antennae of the Ndeemba and the higher central point, representing long tapered braids, symbolise genetic power. Yaka masks are generally brightly coloured and acquire their full significance from the superstructure they carry.
Among the Yaka, at the new moon, the diviner covers his face with Kaolin before taking an oracle. During its daytime passage in the subsoil, the moon coats itself with this white clay. At night, it carries the virtues of life.
01928
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 58 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Vintage
You might also like
African Yaka art - Masks and initiations
This initiation mask often appears in pairs, but differentiated. Theoretically, it is danced by a young person of privileged status. The antennae of the Ndeemba and the higher central point, representing long tapered braids, symbolise genetic power. Yaka masks are generally brightly coloured and acquire their full significance from the superstructure they carry.
Among the Yaka, at the new moon, the diviner covers his face with Kaolin before taking an oracle. During its daytime passage in the subsoil, the moon coats itself with this white clay. At night, it carries the virtues of life.