This Suku initiation mask has an animal on top, a style seen and photographed by Eliot Elisofon. Used during the initiation Circumcision rituals among Yaka people, near Kasongo Lunda, Congo – Democratic Republic. Kwango -Kwilu river area. It represent a forest spirit and animal. Among the Suku of the southwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, masks plays crucial role in protecting boys during initiation, the vulnerable period between boyhood and manhood. The power contained in Suku masks may be directed against those who disrespect or attempt to harm the initiates, and it may be used to cure illness and promote prosperity. Often brightly colored and surmounted by animal figures, these masks depict past elders and lineage heads—people who command a great deal of respect and who make important decisions affecting the community. Slide- Eliot Elisofon, 1951. Prov. : Carlo Bold collection H= 40 cm ( without the raffia) H= 66cm with raffia. Published in "Living with African Art" by David Norden,2019. Nr14