Zemanek-Münster

Mask "mukinka"

D. R. Congo, Salampasu
not available anymore
Provenance
Jan Olof Ollers, Stockholm, Sweden
Jean-Marc Desaive, Soumagne, Belgium
Marc Assayag, Montreal, Canada
Size
H: 41 cm
H: 16.1 inch

Description

wood, entirely coated with bands of copper sheet, a cone-like cane structure atop the head coated with chicken feathers, mouth and eyes accentuated by a thick layer of chalk, slightly dam., base;
the number of masks a warrior society owned, indicated proven courage, experience of warfare and the number of “enemy heads” that had been taken. Copper-covered masks were considered highest in rank, they were worn at war ceremonies, celebrating brave “headhunters”. The little balls made of plaited fibres appear to symbolize masculinity.


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