Bwoom mask - Lot 22

Bwoom mask Kuba Kingdom, Democratic Republic of Congo Circa 19th - 20th century Wood and natural pigments H. 35 cm Provenance: - Henri Kamer (1927-1992), Cannes, France, 1957 - Niono Collection, Paris, France, 1965. - Hans Hess Collection, Basel, Switzerland. - Collection Edouard Hess, Basel, Switzerland. - Galerie Monbrison, Paris Exhibition & Publication: - Arts d'Afrique et d'Océanie, Cannes, July 6 - September 29, 1957. - Die Kunst von Schwarz- Afrika, Kunsthaus Zurich, October 31 - February 10, 1971. Legend has it that in the 17th century, the Kuba king Miko mi-Mbul came to power after having his predecessor and children assassinated. Overcome with remorse, he suffered from fits of madness. Despite remissions, he relapsed every time he wore the royal mask given to him on his enthronement. It is said that a man of Twa origin had a bwoom mask made for him, with which his ailments disappeared. The bwoom is passed on to the future monarch, ensuring continuity of power. Its characteristics vary little. The head, covered in a dark patina, is voluminous, with a protruding forehead - a sign, according to some, of Miko mi-Mbul's hydrocephalus. This powerful example is beautifully covered with ritual scarification.