Helmet mask "kalunga"
R. D. Congo, Bembe
Vendu
4 000 €
Provenance
René David, Zurich, Switzerland (1981)Eduard Hess, Basel, Switzerland
Taille
H: 44 cm
H: 17.3 inch
Description
light brown wood, black and white paint, carved with two pair of eyes with cross-shaped pupils, pierced around the rim, surface with traces of insect caused damage, missing parts;
the mask symbolizes “kalunga”, a Bembe society that functions as mother society and intervenes in tribal disputes; the society also decides tribal positions toward outside interventions. Today this mask is used in various celebrations. It supports a large, complex array of plumes and is worn with a costume that completely covers the dancer.