Anthropomorphic amulet mask "ikoko" ·  D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3038151

Description

ivory, yellowish patina, characteristic facial features, coiffure in three jags, circle pattern with central dot, drilled holes for suspension, min. dam., fine cracks, 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 3038151 was last part of the auction 79th Tribal Art Auction at March 21, 2015 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 472.

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