Helmet mask da iniziazione - Nyeeng - Kuba - 刚果（金）

Kuba mask painted – DR Congo/Zaire – mid 20th century – Painted wood

Traditional Kuba mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), made between 1950 and 1960, originating from the Kuba Confederation or from a nearby sub-group (Kete, Lele, Shongo).

The mask is hand-carved from light wood, then painted with natural pigments in white, ochre/orange and black, following the Kuba visual tradition of covering the surface entirely 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 shape (helmet mask) and the holes on the sides indicate original use in dance or ritual, with possible addition of vegetable fiber or fabric (absent today but compatible with the holes).

Bulbous eyes with slit, prominent nose, raised mouth: all elements that reference the classic Kuba aesthetic and clearly distinguish them from other Central African populations.

The condition is good for its age (about 70 years), with a pleasant patina of historical use and normal wear due to use in a ritual environment.

Slight 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 had 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 now ceded by heirs.

Very quickly well packaged with polystyrene and multiple layers of wrapping, and shipped with tracking and insurance with the best shipping agencies.

The shipping cost includes shipment tracking, packaging materials and insurance of the works.

WE DO NOT SHIP TO THE UNITED STATES due to new tariff policies.

It is the customer’s responsibility to pay import taxes and any customs charges in the destination country.