Kuba Elephant Head - Kuba - DR Congo

Kuba mask, from a Belgian family who lived in the Kasaï region in the Belgian Congo until its independence.

The Kuba, Keté (or Baketé) settled to the south of the Kuba kingdom in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Kuba are the most prolific group of western Kasaï. Kuba art developed chiefly around the royal person. This prestigious culture, made famous by its masks, royal statuettes, and the “Kasai velvet,” is also rich in magnificent ceremonial costumes. The production of masks whose identity is rooted in initiation rites is one of the most remarkable elements of Kuba art.