Democratic Republic of Congo

Kuba

Wood, raffia, trade beads, metal, cowrie shells, hide, fiber
Mid 20th century
Helmet  Length: 25 in; Width: 17.25 in; Depth: 11.25 in
Other – Regalia – Headdress

The Bwoom helmet headdress is the oldest of the three royal headdresses  used by the Kuba.  It was possibly introduced in the seventeenth century and is moreover associated with the non-aristocratic, common man.  The masqueraders appear at ceremonial occasions, embodying different characters depending on the context, to reaffirm they are the ruling class.  They perform rituals such as the funerals of royalty and at boys’ initiations.  Bwoom represents the nature spirit Ngeesh. As part of the royal headdress  trio, he personifies an insubordinate character who struggles with his brother Woot, who is recognized as the creator god and first king, for power and for possession of his wife and sister, Ngaady a Mwaash.

This carved wooden helmet headdress is embellished with glass beads, metal plates and cowrie shells.