Kipoko mask – Wood – Pende – Congo

Great Kiphoko helmet mask from the Pende tribe of DR Congo.

The mask is used for a number of community functions, the most important of which is to venerate and give thanks to the Chief and ancestors for successful harvests, healing, fertility and protection. By giving thanks, the community ensures continued blessings from ancestors. The mask is also used during the mukanda initiation ceremony that marks the end of male circumcision rituals. The initiates take a bite of ritualistic food placed on the tip of the mask’s nose while at the same time swearing to keep secret the lessons learned during the mukanda rites.
Good condition with traces of wear and tear.