Kuba people, Congo

8 inches, wood with natural pigments

In addition to the royal triad, there are other types of Kuba masks, the most important of which is the Ngeende or Pwoom Itok, easily recognized by cone-shaped eyes surrounded with small holes, the black-white-yellow color scheme, and the fact that it is usually combined with a feathered headdress that marks high status. It depicts a wise man who is consulted by the other dancers and is used in dances at funerals, initiations, and entertainment festivals. No indications of use, other than a broken piece on the side which has been glued back on. The mask is pictured in the catalog Masks From Around the World, Lancaster Museum of Art, 2002.

SOLD