Monkey Mask - Hemba - DR Congo






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Hemba Monkey Mask, carved in wood from DR Congo, dating to the late 20th century, 17 cm high, 11 cm wide, 6 cm deep, weight 170 g, in good condition; provenance: private collection.
Description from the seller
Hemba monkey mask from DR Congo in a rustic style.
Soko-Mutu combining animal (chimpanzee) and human facial traits. The Luba name is : Mwisu gwa So’o, in Kishwahili : Soko Mutu or Monkey face
Such masks were used as facemasks with a monkey skin cover and were also used in dances attached to the performer’s belt. Such masks were mainly kept in the house for protection much like a charm or Amulet. The pear-shaped head has small slit eyes, a huge nose with large, open nostrils and a broad, grinning tooth less mouth with thick lips.
Provenance: former private collection from Germany
Shipping within 24 hours after the payment is received. Tracking number will be provided. Signature upon delivery. Fully insured.
Seller's Story
Hemba monkey mask from DR Congo in a rustic style.
Soko-Mutu combining animal (chimpanzee) and human facial traits. The Luba name is : Mwisu gwa So’o, in Kishwahili : Soko Mutu or Monkey face
Such masks were used as facemasks with a monkey skin cover and were also used in dances attached to the performer’s belt. Such masks were mainly kept in the house for protection much like a charm or Amulet. The pear-shaped head has small slit eyes, a huge nose with large, open nostrils and a broad, grinning tooth less mouth with thick lips.
Provenance: former private collection from Germany
Shipping within 24 hours after the payment is received. Tracking number will be provided. Signature upon delivery. Fully insured.
