KUBA STYLE PWOOM ITOK MASK 7, DRC

Despite its appearance we believe this mask was made for the art market.

The pwoom itok mask was part of the Kuba royal circle of masks. It is a simple dance mask. The eyes are surrounded by small holes and the mask is attached to an elaborate headdress consisting of feathers and raffia cloth. The dancer who wears the mask plays a wise, tired old man whom the other dancers come to consult. This example is a type that has horns curving around the eyes.