20th Century Central African Ceremonial Tribal Bakuba Mask Helmet Bushongo 24"

Description

The Kuba Kingdom, also known as the Kingdom of the Bakuba or Bushongo, is a traditional kingdom in Central Africa. The Kuba Kingdom flourished between the 17th and 19th centuries in the region bordered by the Sankuru, Lulua, and Kasai rivers in the heart of the modern-day Democratic Republic of the Congo. This mask was used to declare the status and wealth of a masked personage at funerals of deceased initiated men (mubendi). Masked performances acknowledged the achievements of the deceased and their membership in the initiation society. Made from wood with decorative painting, feathers and straw

Condition

Good condition; Age related wear, some loose feathers

Dimensions

24" x 24" x 8"h, face 9" x 12" x 8"