Ape mask "soko mutu" ·  D. R. Congo, Hemba · ID: 3034987

Description

wood, stained greyish brown patina, encrusted, reduced, clearly defined forms, a broad gap-like opened mouth situated directly at the chin, linear scarification marks below the eyes and on the nose bridge, slightly dam. (mouth right eye), one of the drilled holes backside broken out, metal socle;
“soko mutu” mask dancers were costumed with a tapa cape, wig and pelt beard from the coat of the colobus ape. They were looked upon as frightening characters. Their apparently grinning mouth promised rage and disaster and reminded of the fears of death. The ferocious dances they performed at funeral ceremonies and commemorative festivities reflected the Hembas idea of a disordered afterworld.

Comparing literature

Herreman, Frank, Petridis, Constantijn (ed.), Face of the Spirits, Tervuren 1993, p. 177