Kuba Mask African Bwoom Tribal Congo in Wood, Vibrates Vegetables, Animal Hair

The real Kuba masks are the most important and sacred, where images of nature spirits “mingesh” that act as intermediaries between the Supreme Being “Nyeem” and mortals are depicted. Kings and priests become Mingeshs after death. The bwoom occupies the second place of importance in the hierarchy. This mask is carefully preserved as a symbol of family continuity, unlike the moshambwooy, which is buried with the king when he dies. In dance it expresses exuberance and joy. e name Kuba, that is “people of lightning and light”, is given by the neighbouring tribe Luba. The king, Nyim, is chosen in the sub-tribal Bushoong, “knife throwers”. The myths and legends in the Kuba tradition tell of the creation and organization of the world and the legendary heroic facts.
The mask comes from the Sankuru and Kasai-Congo Rivers Region.