Anthropomorphic amulet mask "ikoko" ·  D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3034879

Description

ivory with natural grains, honey brown patina in some areas, drilled holes for support, tripartite coiffure, closed eyes;
such pendant masks were invoked during healing rites, where the patient was obliged to wear a miniature version of the mask around the neck, by way of protection. These pendants were formerly presented as trophies to the boys following their initiation “mukanda”. It is apparent, that “ikoko” are mostly copies of masks known for their healing powers. Evidently it is the “phumbu” mask, which is usually portrayed in this way.

The object Anthropomorphic amulet mask “ikoko” with the object ID 3034879 was last part of the auction 73rd tribal art auction at May 25, 2013 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house. The object with the lot number 334 achieved a sales price of EUR 900.

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