Authentic Helmetmask - Wood - Musangwe - Tabwa - DR Congo

Original, authentic helmetmask of the Tabwa people living in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Tabwa masks are rare and there is not much known about their use and role. The headdress starts in the middle of the mask, decorated with patterns and scarifications running around the face.
This mask represents the female ancestor Musangwe, symbolising fertility. Musangwe is always dancing with her male companion Kiyunde.
This very old mask has a fantastic lightbrown patina. On top is an original repair.
The eyes are made of cowry shells. Triangular nose and open mouth.
Now in my private Dutch collection.