AAA856 Hemba mask

The kholuka mask, from the Suku tribe in the Democratic Republic of Congo, embodies the conclusion of the rite of passage to manhood, the mukanda. Measuring 26x24x55.5 cm and made of natural wood, it dates from the middle of the 20th century. Adorned with figurative representations of humans and animals, this visual work accompanies songs that highlight gender differences. Celebrating manhood, the mask symbolically ridicules women, thereby reflecting the cultural norms