Anthropomorphic amulet mask "ikoko" · D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3035232
Felix Lauwers, Antwerp, Belgium (1963)
Cecile Kerner, Brussels, Belgium
Description
ivory, honey brown patina and lighter areas alternately, min. dam., fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion;
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 3035232 was part of the auction 74th tribal art auction on September 7, 2013. The object with the lot number 395 achieved a sales price of EUR 3,600 with an asking price of EUR 2,500.
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