Mask "mukinka" ·  R. D. Congo, Salampasu · ID: 3033947

Description

light brown wood, kaolin, the whole face covered with copper sheet, coiffure of rattan bowls with funnel-shaped crest, beard and net-like bonnet made of plant fibres, min. dam., slight traces of abrasion;
the number of masks a warrior society owned, indicated proven courage, experience of warfare and the number of “enemy heads” that had been taken. Copper-covered masks were considered highest in rank, they were worn at war ceremonies, celebrating brave “headhunters”. The little balls made of plaited fibres appear to symbolize masculinity.

Littérature comparée

Hahner-Herzog, Iris, Das Zweite Gesicht, Genf, München, New York 1997, p. 274