Anthropomorphic helmet mask "tshibangabanga" · D. R. Congo, Bindji · ID: 3049477
Description
wood, abrus seeds, hide, feathers, rattan, base
According to Felix, these masks are used in Binji initiation rituals, where they are worn by the master of the initiation camp.
They look fearsome, with all the magical accessories like feathers and red abrus seeds, and are considered very powerful.
The object Anthropomorphic helmet mask “tshibangabanga” with the object ID 3049477 was last part of the auction 99th Auction at November 12, 2022 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 62.
You can find more Masks and other popular object types on our related topic pages. You may also be interested in our page on African art.
Comparing literature
Felix, Marc L., 100 Peoples of Zaire and their Sculpture, Brussels 1987, p. 13, ill. 4