Dinga copper mask, symbol of power and rare ritual
Extremely rare hammered and hallmarked copper mask from the Dinga, also called Tukongo by their Tschokwé neighbors. The Ding, Dinga and Tukongo live on both banks of the upper Kassaï river. Known as the "ngongo munene" (meaning large mask), symbolizing the land chief, it is worn by important members of Mukanda society, divided into two categories, the masons ("Bambumbi") and the officers ("Beeshi")... guarantors of land management, the initiation of young boys and supreme justice. These maques are only rarely used, and very discreetly, for notables' funerals and "great reflections". H. approx. 30cm
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