Helmet mask "kabongo" · D. R. Congo, Kuba · ID: 3036861
Description
light brown wood, kaolin, polychrome paint, plant fibres, elongated chin with scarification marks, conical protruding eyes, enclosed by drilled holes, knob-shaped headgear, pierced around the rim, cracks, slight traces of abrasion;
this mask type embodies the spirit of ancestors and is worn during mourning and initiation rites. The conical eyes depict chameleon eyes, symbolizing the ability to see and read what is actually invisible.
The object Helmet mask “kabongo” with the object ID 3036861 was last part of the auction 77th tribal art auction at June 28, 2014 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 462.
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
Art from Zaire, 100 Masterworks from the National Collection, New York 1975, p. 87, ill. 62