Initiation mask c. 20th century

carving, sculpture, wood

portrait

carving

sculptural image

figuration

sculpture

black object

macro photography

wood

This initiation mask, crafted by the Suku people of the Democratic Republic of Congo, is a powerful symbol of transition and initiation. The mask's carved wooden face, painted in black and white, is adorned with a headdress made of woven fibers. This type of mask was used in initiation ceremonies, marking a young person's passage into adulthood and the responsibilities that come with it. The mask's stylized features and the use of contrasting colors create a striking visual impact, reflecting the significance of the event it represents. The mask is currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

⋮

The red-faced mask with the thick collar of natural raffia comes from the Congolese Suku people. This mask appeared during male initiation rituals: it was danced in a forest camp while teaching adolescents about the rules of good behavior and the secrets of life. It appeared again when, after up to a year, they returned to the village as adult members of society. That masks played a major role in the context of initiation is related to the fact that masks were among the objects used in attempts to approach and influence the invisible realm of ancestors, spirits, and magic forces. As such they had an important part to play in the religious life of the community.