Necklace with anthropomorphic amulet mask "ikoko"
D. R. Congo, Pende
not available anymore
Provenance
Marcel De Munter, Antwerp, BelgiumLoed van Bussel, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Size
H: 5,5 cm
H: 2.2 inch
Description
white and blue glass beads thread on plant fibre, ivory pendant with a grooved beard “mwevu”, collection number “v. Bussel A.M.030”, base;
such pendant masks were invoked during healing rites, where the patient was obliged to wear a miniature version of the mask around the neck, by way of protection. These pendants were formerly presented as trophies to the boys following their initiation “mukanda”.