Mask "phumbu"
D. R. Congo, Pende
not available anymore
Provenance
Leopold Häfliger, Luzern, SwitzerlandRené David, Zurich, Switzerland (1983)
Eduard Hess, Oberwil, Switzerland
Size
H: 26 cm
H: 10.2 inch
Description
wood, polychrome paint, raffia bonnet with four cone-like projections, min. dam., traces of abrasion;
present mask represents a chief and was used during masquerades supposed to entertain the village inhabitants. When the “phumbu” mask appeared, it was frequently accompanied by an assistant wearing a “tundu” mask. His task was to find a good seat for the chief with the best possible view.