Mask ("mabu") "mabwo" · Cameroon Grassfields, Bafum (Fungom region) or Wum · ID: 3042145
not available anymore
Provenance
German Private Collection, collected in situ (1972-1979)Size
H: 23 cm
L: 36 cm
H: 9.1 inch
L: 14.2 inch
Description
wood, rich blackish brown patina, red pigment, prominent shield-like projecting headdress, round cheeks, open mouth, slightly dam., minor missing parts, traces of insect caused damage;
the “mabu” performed at funerals and commemorative celebrations for important men of the village. They belonged to the “kwifon” society. At death celebrations they announced the arrival of the frightening “nkock” mask. Dressed in a feather costume and accompanied by bird-like sounds the mask danced across the public square, where the celebration took place.
Comparing literature
Harter, Pierre, Arts anciens du Cameroun, Arnouville 1986, p. 236, ill. 270 Homberger, Lorenz (Hg.), Kamerun, Kunst der Könige, Zürich 2008, p. 231