This mask was carved in the style of the Suku people of DRC. The mask showcases an animal of some kind on top of the head. The mask measures 15 inches tall and weighs 5 pounds. The animal is missing a horn/ear and there is some damage under the chin of the mask. Cracking, scuffing and general wear and tear throughout – please inspect photos. Stand not included but one can be added for an additional charge.
Sale!
Timeworn Suku Helmet Mask 15″ – DR Congo – African Art
Original price was: $195.00.$97.50Current price is: $97.50.
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| Type of Object | Helmet Mask |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | DR Congo |
| Ethnicity | Suku |
| Material | Wood, Pigment |
| Approximate Age | Unknown |
| Height (Inches) | 15" |
| Width (Inches) | 10" |
| Depth (Inches) | 11.5" |
| Weight (Pounds) | 5 lbs |
| Overall Condition | Animal missing horn/ear. Damage under mask. Wear and tear throughout. |
Tribe Information
About the Suku People
“The 80,000 Suku people lived in the south-western part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire) since the 16th century. With the arrical of the Yaka and the Lunda intheir territory, they were split into two autonomous groups. Their main econoomix resource is farming, but occasionally communal hunts are organized. Stylistically, their sculptures are characterized by an enlarged head with an almond-shaped mouth with incised teeth, a triangular nose and coffee-bean eyes, all set under an elaborate coiffure. The Suku carved large figures, which were used during fertility ceremonies, and crouching fetish figures to which paraphernalia were attached. These were used either as ancestor figures or as the personification of evil spirits.”
Source:
Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc. 1998. Print
Additional Information
About Suku Masks
“Large face masks and helmet masks surmounted by animal or human figures were worn by dancers during certain initiation ceremonies.”