Almost flat surface for this kumu mask marked with dark details, the perforations reminiscent of the paintings adorning the bodies during ritual ceremonies. Geometrical gaps form the eyes and the toothed mouth. On the other hand, the straight, short nose has small holes representing the nostrils. The raffia beard is still present on this specimen. Abraded patina. Height on pedestal: 48 cm. The Kumu, Bakumu, Komo, live mainly in the northeast and center in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Their Bantu language is komo or kikomo. Several ethnic groups are closely intertwined with similar associations: the Mbole, Yela, Lengola, and Metoko. Their artistic production has also great similarities with that of the Metoko and Lengola. Their divination masks were displayed during the closing ceremonies of initiation and circumcision of the youth of the nkunda society. It is indeed in the region of Maniema around the Lualaba River and the Great Lakes that Lega sculpture has largely exerted its influence. A costume made of bark textiles and plant fibers concealed the wearer. Biebuck is said to have noted a great similarity between the rituals accompanying the appearance of Kumu masks and those of the muminia Lega masks.
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