Ape mask "soko mutu" · R. D. Congo, Hemba · ID: 3037775
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Description
wood, slightly encrusted dark brown patina, with a broad “laughing” mouth, rep. (breakages in the area of the jaw), slight traces of abrasion;
“soko mutu” mask dancers were costumed with a tapa cape, wig and pelt beard from the coat of the colobus ape. They were looked upon as frightening characters. Their apparently grinning mouth promised rage and disaster and reminded of the fears of death. The ferocious dances they performed at funeral ceremonies and commemorative festivities reflected the Hembas idea of a disordered afterworld.