Initiation helmet mask - Nyeeng - Kuba - DR Congo
06
days
17
hours
25
minutes
13
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
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Description from the seller
Painted Kuba mask – D.R. Congo / Zaire – mid-20th century – Multicolored wood
Traditional Kuba mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), made between 1950 and 1960, coming from the Kuba Confederation or from a nearby sub-group (Kete, Lele, Shongo).
The mask is hand-carved in light wood, then painted with natural pigments in white, ochre/orange and black tones, following the Kuba visual tradition of covering the entire surface with geometric patterns of triangles, bands, and linear motifs.
Dimensions: Height: 35 cm. Width: 16 cm. Depth: 12 cm. Weight: 450 grams.
The semi-cylindrical helmet mask form and the side holes indicate original use in dance or ritual, with possible addition of plant fiber or cloth (today absent but compatible with the holes).
Bulbous eyes with slit, prominent nose, raised mouth: all elements that reference the classic Kuba aesthetic and clearly distinguish it from other Central African populations.
The condition is good considering the age (about 70 years), with a pleasant patina from historical use and normal wear due to ritual use.
Light signs of time, small abrasions of the paint visible even in the photos, no invasive restoration.
These masks were worn during initiation rites, funeral ceremonies, or events connected to the male secret society.
Each mask carried identity and spiritual value, representing both ancestors and intermediary spirits (intermediaries between the Supreme Divinity Nyeem and the Kuba people).
Private provenance De Vita M. from a European collection, acquired in the 1970s/’75 and now ceded by heirs.
Very quickly well-packed with foam and multilayer packaging, and shipped with tracking and insurance via the best shipping agencies.
The shipping cost includes shipment tracking, packaging material costs, and insurance of the works.
WE DO NOT SHIP to the United States due to new tariff policies.
It is the buyer’s responsibility to pay import duties and any customs charges in the destination country.
Painted Kuba mask – D.R. Congo / Zaire – mid-20th century – Multicolored wood
Traditional Kuba mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), made between 1950 and 1960, coming from the Kuba Confederation or from a nearby sub-group (Kete, Lele, Shongo).
The mask is hand-carved in light wood, then painted with natural pigments in white, ochre/orange and black tones, following the Kuba visual tradition of covering the entire surface with geometric patterns of triangles, bands, and linear motifs.
Dimensions: Height: 35 cm. Width: 16 cm. Depth: 12 cm. Weight: 450 grams.
The semi-cylindrical helmet mask form and the side holes indicate original use in dance or ritual, with possible addition of plant fiber or cloth (today absent but compatible with the holes).
Bulbous eyes with slit, prominent nose, raised mouth: all elements that reference the classic Kuba aesthetic and clearly distinguish it from other Central African populations.
The condition is good considering the age (about 70 years), with a pleasant patina from historical use and normal wear due to ritual use.
Light signs of time, small abrasions of the paint visible even in the photos, no invasive restoration.
These masks were worn during initiation rites, funeral ceremonies, or events connected to the male secret society.
Each mask carried identity and spiritual value, representing both ancestors and intermediary spirits (intermediaries between the Supreme Divinity Nyeem and the Kuba people).
Private provenance De Vita M. from a European collection, acquired in the 1970s/’75 and now ceded by heirs.
Very quickly well-packed with foam and multilayer packaging, and shipped with tracking and insurance via the best shipping agencies.
The shipping cost includes shipment tracking, packaging material costs, and insurance of the works.
WE DO NOT SHIP to the United States due to new tariff policies.
It is the buyer’s responsibility to pay import duties and any customs charges in the destination country.
Details
Indigenous object name
Nyeeng
Ethnic group/ culture
Kuba
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Mid 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Initiation helmet mask
Height
35 cm
Width
16 cm
Depth
12 cm
Weight
450 g
Provenance
Private collection
Authenticity
Original/official
