Democratic Republic of Congo
Kete (Kuba)

Wood, raffia, pigment
Early-Mid 20th century
Height: (without raffia collar): 18.8 in; Length 12.3 in; Width: 9.4 in
Other – Regalia – Headdress

Based on its style this wooden helmet mask ‘Nyachi’ comes from the Kete people of the Kuba group from the Sankuru River region of the DR Congo.  The head is similar to the rare ‘Mulwalwa’ masks of that group but does not have conical pupils for eyes.  This mask features arching brows, huge eyes, a straight nose, all adorned with yellow, red, black, and white painted classic geometric designs of  the Kuba, as well as an elaborate raffia collar.  It shows a patina of use.

The Kuba kingdom was founded in the 16^th century by the Bushoong who are still ruled by a king today.  They encompass around 19 different groups of people, including the Bushoong, Ngeende, Shoowa, Ngongo, Bieeng, Idiing, Ilebo, Kel, Kayuweeng, Kete, Ngombe, Bokila and Kaam, and the common language of the Kuba is still Bushoong.

More than twenty types of African masks are used among the Kuba.  Each with meanings and functions that vary from group to group. Ritual ceremonies served as opportunities to exhibit their decorative arts and masks.

The three royal mask types include the tailored Mwaash aMbooy, representing Woot (a mythical ancestor representing the son of god who came to earth to start the kingdom as king); the wooden helmet mask, Bwoom, representing the brother who creates conflict by trying to over throw his brother; and Ngady Mwaash aMbooy, the incestuous sister-wife of Woot.  All three of these characters appear in public ceremonies involving the king and initiation ceremonies.

Resource: https://www.africarte.it/maschere/maschere.htm;  https://www.africarte.it/etnie/elenco.etnie/Kete/kete(003).htm