Kuba Mask Cowrie Shells Congo African Art

Description

Title
Kuba Mask Cowrie Shells Congo African Art
Type of Object
Ngaady a Mwaash Mask
Country of Origin
Democratic Republic of Congo
People
Kuba or Leele, Lele
Materials
Wood, fabric, cowrie shells and beads
Approximate Age
20th Century
Height (in)
12
Width (in)
9
Depth (in)
8
Overall Condition
Fair
Damage/Repair
Holes in cloth
Additional information:
A decorated face mask with a woven raffia hood decorating the top and sides.  Ornate patterns of shells and glass beads adorn the face and hood.  Adorned with geometric designs typical of Kuba masks.
This face mask represents Nhaady a Mwaash, the wife of the first Kuba king.  SHe is seen as a founding royal female ancestor of the 17th century Bushoong Kuba dynasty. It performs as part of the famed Kuba trio of masks (with Mashamboy and Bwoon) in a ceremony celebrating and reenacting the dynasty.
This colorful trio of characters comprises the recognized pantheon of the royal helmet masks, which are eagerly sought-after by collectors and museums.
Recommended reading:
-Meurant, George, 1986, ART KUBA, Credit Communal, Brussels Mack, John, EMILE TORDAY AND ART OF THE CONGO 1900-1909, University of Washington Press, Seattle -Cornet, Joseph, 1982, ART ROYAL KUBA, Edizioni Sipiel, Milano -Cornet, Joseph, 1978, A Survey of Zairian Art-The Bronson Collection, North Carolina Museum of Art.
DL0521
**137454**
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