Initiation helmet mask - Nyeeng - Kuba - DR Congo
06
days
08
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20
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53
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Starting bid
€ 1
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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
Kuba Painted Mask – DR Congo/Zaire – mid-20th century – Carved wood, polychrome
Traditional Kuba mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), made between 1950 and 1960, coming from the Kuba federation or from a neighboring sub-group (Kete, Lele, Shongo).
The mask is hand-carved from lightweight wood, then painted with natural pigments in white, ochre/orange, and black tones, according to the Kuba visual tradition of entirely covering the surface with geometric patterns of triangles, bands, and linear motifs.
Dimensions: Height: 35 cm. Width: 16 cm. Depth: 12 cm. Weight: 450 grams.
The half-helmet cylindrical form (helmet mask) and the side holes indicate its original use in dance or ritual, with possible addition of plant fiber or fabric (now absent but compatible with the holes).
Bulbous eyes with slit, prominent nose, raised mouth: all elements that refer to the classic Kuba aesthetic and clearly distinguish it from other Central African peoples.
The condition is good given its age (about 70 years), with a pleasant patina of historical use and normal wear due to use in a ritual environment.
Light signs of time, slight paint abrasions 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 had identity and spiritual value, representing both ancestors and intermediary spirits (mediators between the Supreme Divinity Nyeem and the Kuba people).
Private provenance De Vita M. from a European collection, acquired in the 70s/75s and now transferred by heirs.
Very quickly packed well with Styrofoam and multipacks, and shipped with tracking and insurance via top shipping agencies.
Shipping costs include shipment tracking, packaging material cost, and artwork insurance.
WE DO NOT SHIP TO THE UNITED STATES due to new tariff policies.
It is the customer’s responsibility to pay import duties and any customs charges in the destination country.
Kuba Painted Mask – DR Congo/Zaire – mid-20th century – Carved wood, polychrome
Traditional Kuba mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), made between 1950 and 1960, coming from the Kuba federation or from a neighboring sub-group (Kete, Lele, Shongo).
The mask is hand-carved from lightweight wood, then painted with natural pigments in white, ochre/orange, and black tones, according to the Kuba visual tradition of entirely covering the surface with geometric patterns of triangles, bands, and linear motifs.
Dimensions: Height: 35 cm. Width: 16 cm. Depth: 12 cm. Weight: 450 grams.
The half-helmet cylindrical form (helmet mask) and the side holes indicate its original use in dance or ritual, with possible addition of plant fiber or fabric (now absent but compatible with the holes).
Bulbous eyes with slit, prominent nose, raised mouth: all elements that refer to the classic Kuba aesthetic and clearly distinguish it from other Central African peoples.
The condition is good given its age (about 70 years), with a pleasant patina of historical use and normal wear due to use in a ritual environment.
Light signs of time, slight paint abrasions 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 had identity and spiritual value, representing both ancestors and intermediary spirits (mediators between the Supreme Divinity Nyeem and the Kuba people).
Private provenance De Vita M. from a European collection, acquired in the 70s/75s and now transferred by heirs.
Very quickly packed well with Styrofoam and multipacks, and shipped with tracking and insurance via top shipping agencies.
Shipping costs include shipment tracking, packaging material cost, and artwork insurance.
WE DO NOT SHIP TO THE UNITED STATES due to new tariff policies.
It is the customer’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
