Kuba Mukenga Moshambwooy Helmet Mask Elephant from DRC

Description

Kuba Mukenga Moshambwooy Helmet Mask Elephant from DRC.
With helmet like form, this elaborate headdress is known as Mukenga mask of the Kuba peoples.
Mukenga are thought to have originated east of the Bushongo, rulers of the Kuba kingdom,
among the Ngongo & Ngeende peoples. Characteristic of these masks is the elephantine projection
from the top of the head. The Mukenga or Mukyeem is considered a variant of the Mwaash aMbooy
royal mask representing Woot, the mythical founder and king from whom all Kuba royal lines are descended.
Elephantine masquerade masks such as this, appear at the burial rituals of aristocratic clans & high ranking elders, as
well as initiation ceremonies, both of which are concerned with a change in status, an acceptance
and transfer of traditional knowledge & wisdom.
Of large proportions, this stunning piece is a product of labor intensive craftsmanship, lavishly adorned
with valuable cowrie shells, once a form of currency and glass beads appropriate to the period, arranged in exquisite geometric
patterns for which the Kuba artist is known. These elements are symbols of title, wealth & elite
status.
The conical elephant trunk, beaded and also adorned in cowries evokes power, the supreme symbol
of leadership. Raffia adorns the distal end of the trunk, whereas depending on use, some pieces
may have tufts of parrot feathers.
A large collar of raffia surrounds the base of this mask, nearly hiding the fine, large cuff of beadwork.
Stylized human ears, carved of wood are also, nearly hidden by the extensive fiber collar.
Facial features include an elongate nose decorated in glass beads and beaded eyes, all presented
over a raffia cloth base.
This early to mid-century Mukenga mask is absolutely lovely,
with evidence of actual use.
It is a tribute to the artistry that can be found in Central Africa.
It is witness to a people and to their culture.
For interior home design, the measurement is approximately
20" x 24" or 51 cms x 61 cms, simply taken at tallest
and widest points.
This listing is for the mask only, it does not include a stand. If you want a stand, contact me and we can make one for you for .