A KUBA BWOOM HELMET MASK

Provenance: Steijler Mission SVD, Blönried, Germany

One of the three royal masks, the 'Bwoom' is one of the oldest mask types used by the Kuba who live in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Bwoom is moreover associated with non-aristocratic, common man. The rebellious aspect of the Bwoom masquerader is expressed in a proud and aggressive style of dancing. According to one of the various legends surrounding the origin of the Bwoom, the bulging forehead and form of the mask imitate the heads of pigmies.

Luba people, Democratic Republic of Congo
Wood, copper, glass beads and vegetable fiber

Price:  €  1.200,-