An excellent example of a Kuba Pwoom Itok mask adorned with a raffia grass headdress, cowrie shells and crown of feathers. Lovely aged patina and free from damage. The headdress has been folded over the back of the mask so that it could be hung on a wall. Thought to date C.1900.
29cm / 11.5" tall
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The Pwoom Itok mask, a central mask type among the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is characterized by its prominent, cone-shaped eyes with small holes for viewing. These masks are richly polychromed (multicolored) and often adorned with headdresses and other symbolic elements. They are worn by notable individuals, potentially representing wisdom or high status, during initiations, burials, and other ceremonial dances.
29cm / 11.5" tall
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The Pwoom Itok mask, a central mask type among the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is characterized by its prominent, cone-shaped eyes with small holes for viewing. These masks are richly polychromed (multicolored) and often adorned with headdresses and other symbolic elements. They are worn by notable individuals, potentially representing wisdom or high status, during initiations, burials, and other ceremonial dances.