Polychrome Salampasu mask, DRC ex-Zaire. - Lot 115

Polychrome Salampasu mask, DRC ex-Zaire. Associated with the ceremonies and initiation rites of the warrior society, this African mask also appeared at funerals in connection with the deceased's previous initiations, and, in many cases, in return for payment. The power of certain masks was so feared that their name alone caused women and children to flee. These masks are distinguished by their bulbous foreheads, blunt noses and mouths revealing carved teeth. 23 x 19 cm Height on base: 35 cm. Misses and erosions. The Salampasu are a warrior tribe of the Lulua group, who live between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Angola, east of the Kasai River. They are surrounded by the Tschokwe and Lunda to the west and south, and the Kete and Lwalwa to the north and east. A hierarchy of masks - simple kasangu wooden masks and mukinka copper-covered masks - was associated with the mungongo (pl. bangongo ) warrior society. Wearing these masks depended on a large contribution of livestock, drink or other material goods from the aspirant, who was initiated into esoteric knowledge by the other mask wearers. ( Africa , Prestel)