Mask African Yaka Mask

Description

This is a beautiful Old Yaka Initiation Mask from Democratic Republic of Congo.  A stunning triba Yaka Kholuka mask consisting of wood, raffia,  colored pigments, kaolin, oval face carved of classical form, exaggerated features, toothy mouth, most areas covered with white pigment, superstructure with a surmounted figure administering an enema.  The figure surmounted at the top of the mask has a cloth head, hands and feet and body. . This type of mask, ” Kholuka” is only used for circumcision and initiation rites, known as the “nKanda”. Three months before the ceremony, the carver,” muumbwa”, is formally invited to conceive the mask. He carves the Kholuka in a field where offerings are made in honor of the ancestors. These ancestors are strictly off limits for strangers, women, and non initiated males. After the mask is finished, the carver applies a mixture which will confer magic and protective elements to it. They were reserved for the carers of the initiates. Their appearance shows the end of the seclusion time. The dance of the masks is accompanied by chants confirming the male supremacy and the social rank of the young men. The most important event in the Yaka ceremonial cycle is the initiation of young boys into adulthood. To mark the end of the educational period, festivities are held in which the initiates perform with newly carved masks. Additionally, it showcases the most startling masks and the most spectacular dances. Initiation mukhanda, that includes circumcision, is a crucial part of Yaka life. Circumcision and initiation, mandatory for all young men, are organized in a remote place called mukhanda-mu-msitu. The rituals are organized by the main secret societies. These masks are carved for initiation and are used only once. The carver (muumbwa) repairs and carves new masks for circumcisions which are danced in pairs or groups, except the mask worn by the tutor’s leader who dances alone. Masked dancer first asks permission and begs gifts wherever the initiates travel to perform. The ritual expert and his aide, the senior tutor, the sculptor, and the initiates wear different masks. The most common masks (kholuka) are used by initiates and vary greatly. The masks are the work of a sculptor who carries out his art well away from the initiation enclosure, also separated from the view of other villagers. The sculptural composition of this mask is typical of Yaka works. The face and body features are painted with bright colors on white background.  This is a wonderful and important Yaka  society Mask that would be beautiful in your home as well as a wonderful addition to your collection.  Shows age.
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34" tall x 11" wide  x 10" deep x 37" around the top
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