Unique large wooden mask from the Suku tribe of DR 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, the dark yellow and blue colour of the tribal figure 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.