Kuba Pwoom Itok Ishyeenmaal mask - SOLD OUT
In African art Kuba, the many traditional masks used in initiation rituals representing nature spirits, the mingesh. These spirits serve as intermediaries between men and the supreme deity Nyeem. They are the ones who make the soil fertile, hunt fruitful and heal the sick. The pwoom itok masks have projection features.
The horns represent an ancient hairstyle worn by the Kuba warriors and which has survived, sported by the chiefs. Two mats symbolized the horns of the buffalo. The tubular eyes recall those of the chameleon. A polychrome patina contrasts the whole.
00639
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 22 x 13 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- African art gallery
- Condition
- Excellent
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In African art Kuba, the many traditional masks used in initiation rituals representing nature spirits, the mingesh. These spirits serve as intermediaries between men and the supreme deity Nyeem. They are the ones who make the soil fertile, hunt fruitful and heal the sick. The pwoom itok masks have projection features.
The horns represent an ancient hairstyle worn by the Kuba warriors and which has survived, sported by the chiefs. Two mats symbolized the horns of the buffalo. The tubular eyes recall those of the chameleon. A polychrome patina contrasts the whole.