Anthropomorphic miniature mask "ikoko" ·  D. R. Congo, Pende · ID: 3034332

Description

ivory, attached to a necklace of red glass beads, thread on plant fibre strings, encrusted at the back, fine cracks through age;
such miniature masks with three- or four-pointed headgear embody the powerful masked spirits “fumu” and “pumbu”, with whom the boys will have a lifelong alliance.The masks, which are usually made of costly ivory or hippopotamus bone, also indicate the owner’s status and prestige.

Please consider the legal regulations concerning the import of ivory to the USA.