Africa

Kuba bwoom mask

Democratic Republic of Congo
Democratic Republic of Congo

Q:  The mask easily fits an adult, but some of the cowries are missing. There is also a crack which was repaired.
I do not know much else. Thank you very much.  Derek, 875

A:  I think this mask is made to look like a Kuba bwoom mask. If it was actually to be used in culture it would probably have more exciting bead and shell decorations and be more carefully carved. Nowadays most of the masks we see on the market have been produced for sale to tourists, often at work shops far away from the native culture… and often in a hurry. Time is money in West Africa, just as it is everywhere else. C+

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