250732 - African Mwaash aMbooy mask from the Kuba people with raffia - Congo
Extremely rare old African aMwaash aMbooy mask from the Kuba people - Congo
Size: 32 cm and 42 total including the feathers.
This Kuba mask is dated mid of the 20th century and comes with a certificate of authenticity.
Mask of natural fibres, decorated with old beads, cowrie shells, rope and feathers. Eyes of shells. The surface is highly decorative, composed of geometrically applied old beads and geometrically arranged cowrie shells and beads. One feature is a long strip of beadwork that extends from the forehead over the bridge of the nose to the chin. Emphasis is placed on the two-dimensional surface quality and extensive polychromy.
Headdress with feathers inserted in a mat of braided rope
Among the Kuba, masks are believed to be reflections of nature spirits (mingesh) that act as mediators between the Supreme Being (Nyeem) and the world of mortals. There are over twenty different types of masks that function within the male initiation community. Moshambwooy is one of the three most important and represents Woot, the founder from whom the Kuba believe they are descended. Moshambwooy masks are worn by the nyimi, or king, of the Kuba or by village chiefs.