Mask - Rattan - Chokwe - DR Congo

There are many types of initiation masks. Their name and meaning can only be deduced by the shape of the coiffure. In our case, the columnar , central structure is connected to four flaps, held up by rattan twigs. The mask symbolizes "Mbwesu" who would beg for food in the village during the initiations for the initiates. Ex. Colonial collection. Family Lejeune , Belgium. Cf. " 100 people of Zaire . . . " , M. L. Felix , Brussels , 1987 , p. 182&183 , afb. 4 (62 cm) Rattan structure, The face is covered with woven raffia textiles and then smeared with a red resin mass. Sides of the eyes are of white painted textiles. Coiffure strung on the inside with red textile. The outside of the coiffure is covered with painted textiles. Attachment string at the back of the small pillar at the top. Some wear and tear of the textile at places. Craquelé formation to the resin. Chipped and bent horizontal rattan sticks of the coiffure. Dust deposition and traces of wear and tear on the whole. The sides are perforated for the attachment of the raffia beard. Very rare and in good condition. Shipment with track & trace.