Zemanek-Münster

Mask "phumbu"

D. R. Congo, Pende
not available anymore
Provenance
German Private Collection, Munich
Size
H: 44 cm
H: 17.3 inch

Description

wood, polychrome paint, crowned by four cone-like projections of raffia bast, remains of a plant fibre bonnet, pierced around the rim, min. dam.,min. dam., base;
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.


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