Tribally used initiation mask, YAKA, DR Congo, 1940-50

Tribal used initiation mask, YAKA, NKANU, ZOMBO, DR Congo

This circumcision mask of the Yaka, Nkanu, Zombo has an imposing appearance. In this form it occurs in all three of these tribes. An initiation mask used by a boy of 12-13 years old. It was used during circumcision rituals spread over several days. Two masks are danced at the same time, of which this is one. Attributes that are also used in those rituals include eggs, associated with fertility, and beans that symbolize prosperity. The boy's mother also plays an important role in the transition to the world of adult men.

The mask is rare, complete with the full collar and intact headgear!! The face is in the old style. The newer style shows a turned-up nose. The kaolin coloring and other pigments are excellently preserved. The headpiece is beautiful and impressive and shows various geometric patterns in different colors with a piece of fabric wrapped in red thread at the ends.

The mask was held in the hand before dancing. Hence the handle. The inside has a rattan woven construction and is also completely intact! A mask with use of this age in this condition is rare! while the price is less than half what a gallery would charge. I also had a very nice wooden stand made that is of course included.

Total length: approx. 83 cm
Length mask with collar: approx. 68 cm
Weight: 2504 grams
Origin: DR Congo
Dating: 1940-50
Provenance: ex mr. Vesters, Lanaken, Belgium