African tribal mask

An African Tribal Art Kuba Kabongo Mask

Wood, pigment, raffia, shells

Used condition with wear and tear, tribal repair

Kuba masks with conical eyes are associated with initiation, but very little is known about the ceremonies or the uses of the masks, all of which are kept strictly secret. Kabongo is believed to be an ancestral spirit who appears at the end of initiation to congratulate those who have passed through successfully.

The mask is very elaborate, with a beaded hood typical of Kuba masks and a headdress of feathers. Unfortunately the feathers are invariably cut before the masks are sold, perhaps as part of the rituals. This often leaves just a hole in the top of the mask. In this case this is at least an indication of how splendid they must have looked!

This is a genuine mask with clear signs of use and age.