Anthropo-zoomorphic mask of "mukanda" initiation · D. R. Congo, Pende, East · ID: 3048332
sold
EUR 200
Size
H: 37 cm
H: 14.6 inch
Description
wood, colour pigments,
This mask could be a variant of the “thangi” mask type, which is usually characterised by broken, serrated horns.
According to Strother’s field report, “thangi” is a pun on “matangi” (“thoughts”). The zigzag horns are meant to exhort the initiators to be resourceful while facing life’s difficulties. What is meant is that sometimes you have to try many different ways before you find the best solution.
Comparing literature
Strother, Z.S., Pende, Mailand 2008, p. 15 f.