Mask "pwoom itok"
D. R. Congo, Kuba
not available anymore
Provenance
Hans Himmelheber, Heidelberg, Germany (1934/35)Lore & Georg Kegel, Hamburg, Germany
Size
H: 47 cm
H: 18.5 inch
Description
wood, brown patina, remains of pigments, conical protruding eyes, enclosed by drilled holes, bonnet from raffia, fur and cloth, handwritten collection label “K8” on the backside, min. dam., slight traces of abrasion;
this mask type can be found among various Kuba groups, including the Bushoong and the Ngeende. It appears during the young men’s initiation and also performs as a dance mask. It incarnates an old wise man who is consulted by the other dancers. Among the Bushoong it is worn by members of the “babende” secret society, which is responsible for the apprehension of criminals.