Anthropomorphic amulet mask "ikoko" · D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3035232
sold
EUR 3,600
Provenance
Jean Batiste Constant Vandewalle, Antwerp, BelgiumFelix Lauwers, Antwerp, Belgium (1963)
Cecile Kerner, Brussels, Belgium
Size
H: 5 cm
H: 2.0 inch
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.