Ape mask "soko mutu" ·  D. R. Congo, Hemba · ID: 3035913

Description

wood, blackish brown patina, remains of animal hair, of characteristic form with a broad “laughing” mouth, decoration nails on the head, pierced around the rim, min. dam., traces of insect caused damage and abrasion, base;
“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.

The object Ape mask “soko mutu” with the object ID 3035913 was last part of the auction 75th tribal art auction at November 30, 2013 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 398.

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