Helmet mask "kabongo"
D. R. Congo, Kuba
sold
EUR 1,400
Provenance
Émile-Francois Chambon, Geneva, Switzerland (1999)Eduard Hess, Basel, Switzerland
Size
H: 46,5 cm
H: 18.3 inch
Description
wood, dark brown patina, red pigment remains, scarifications in the area of forehead and cheeks, conical protruding eyes, pupils inset with metal tags, a band decorated with cowrie snails at the back, min. dam., traces of insect caused damage, slight traces of abrasion;
this mask embodies the spirit of ancestors and is worn during mourning rites for a man. The conical eyes symbolize the eyes of chameleon’s standing for the ability to see and read what is actually invisible.