Global Art & Artifacts

Stunning Bakuba Mask.  Kuba. Carved Wood.  D.R. Congo.  Africa.

Click the photo above for a larger version and more pictures

 

 

The Kuba Kingdom was a conglomerate of several smaller Bushongo-speaking principalities as well as the Kete, Coofa, Mbeengi and the Twa Pygmies.  The original Kuba migrated during the 16th century from the north. Nineteen different ethnic groups are included in the kingdom, which still exists and is presided over by the King (nyim).

 

This ornately carved mask combines human and animal forms to communicate ideals of refinement and power.  Elegant facial features are obvious.  The Kuba believe in shaving below the hairline to expose the forehead . . .  thought to enhance cultural refinement and expose the wonders of wisdom and insight.

 

I think the headdress is actually a carving of flat horns of a ram . . . a dominant and aggressive  animals that does not tolerate rivals.  Very symbolic.

 

This is a superb specimen in near-perfect condition.

 

A rare find for the Serious Collector.  Stand not included.

 

The item has been SOLD.  Thanks, J.S. !!

 

Search EsotericStuff.com
SERIOUS COLLECTORS

NOTE to the Art Collector, Gallery Owner, Dealer or Academic: click here for items unique to your requirements.

Product Categories
CContainers
Bowls, Boxes, Bells, Gongs, Medicine Holders. Containers not considered vessels
FFurniture / Furnishings
Furniture, Furnishings, Wall Hangings, Screens, Lamps, Display Pieces, Pedestals, Paintings
MMasks
Masks and Headgear
RReference / Research
Maps, Books and Materials
SStatues & Figures
Statues, Sculptures, Figures, Heads & Busts
VVessels & Vases
Vessels, Urns, Vases, Incense Burners, Censers
WWeapons
Knives, Swords, Letter Openers, Phurbas, Spears, Blowpipes
OOther not categorized
Other and miscellaneous such as Jewelry, Musical Instruments, Games, Garments, Skulls