Helmet Mask – Wood, Raphia – Suku – Congo

Worn during male initiation ceremonies, masks like these represented all departed ancestors. Mourning songs were sung during the ritual; the vertical lines on the face are tears. Neighbors of the Yaka, Suku masks are more conservative in their facial treatments. Although styles vary, there is usually a massive collar of raffia and often a figure or animal on the top of the mask. This rare mask is wonderful in its proportions and colouring, it provides a beautiful contrast with the white kaolin face, the typical overhanging brows lend this ethereal face beauty and melancholy. The mask is in a good condition with a beautiful aged patina with traces of tribal use. Total length with raphia: 80 cm Provenance: former private German collection.

Object	Helmet Mask
Ethnic group:	Suku
Country:	DR Congo
Material:	Wood, Raphia
Estimated period:	Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:	No
Dimensions:	40x22x22 cm
Weight:	800 gram
Condition:	Fair condition, used with some signs of wear