Pumbu Pumbu Mask

Pumbu, Congo. Wood. Pigments.
Height: 30"

The awe inspiring mask was said to be the sole property of the chief and was meant to do just that - inspire awe and fear in anyone daring to question the chief's absolute authority. The patterns of diamond on the mask were said to reflect the paramountcy and rule of the chiefdom and "chiefship".

In times of social crisis, the mask was said to have danced to reassert the chief's authority, which included severe punishment and even death to offenders. The tri- patterning coloration just adds to its impressive magisterial essence.

Used for social control.