Sick" Kuba mask, DRC - Lot 174

Sick" Kuba mask, DRC Supposed to embody a sick person, or a victim of witchcraft or paralysis, this mask features distorted features and a hairstyle with shaved temples that distinguishes Kuba groups. An old colored pastillage can be seen very faintly under the greasy black patina. 29 x 16 cm Height on base: 38 cm Abrasions and desiccation cracks Nature spirits, the ngesh , were supposed to be incarnated in Kuba masks during dances. The dancers' footprints were then erased so as not to "hurt" women venturing into the dance area. The Kuba kingdom was founded in the 16th century by the main Bushoong tribe, which is still ruled by a king today, and whose capital was Nshyeeng or Mushenge. More than twenty types of tribal mask are used by the Kuba, or "people of lightning", with meanings and functions that vary from group to group. Ritual ceremonies were occasions to display decorative arts and masks, to honor the spirit of the deceased or to honor the king. Source: "Kuba" 5Continents.