Three types of masks have been associated with dances that take place within the royal compound: the first, called Moshambwooy, represents Woot, the founder of the Bushoong, the culture hero. The second, known as Nady Amwaash (Ngaady A Mwash), personifies the wife/sister of Woot, a character said to have been introduced to the pageantry to give greater importance to the role of women. The third mask is called Bwoom. As a character, Bwoom has been interpreted variously as a prince (the king’s younger brother), a commoner, a pygmy, even a subversive element at the royal court. There are many differences among regional stylistic interpretations of the Bwoom mask, but the form’s most pronounced features invariably are its bulging forehead and broad nose. The drama is often reenacted in performances at public ceremonies, initiations, and funerals even of untitled men, though they are especially important at the funerals of titleholders. Bwoom is perhaps the oldest of the Kuba royal masquerade triumvirate. Oral traditions suggest that the genre may date back to about the middle of the eighteenth century. Other masks are collectively known as Isheene Mwalu.   

Measures: 11" at length by 6" at width by 10" at depth.

Materials: wood, intricate bead work, cowrie shells, twine, soft felt red material.

This mask will compliment an Orisha room for Shango whose associated colors are red and white.

PLEASE NOTE, HEADDRESS DOES NOT COME WITH THE CAST IRON BASE, AUCTION IS FOR HEADDRESS ONLY!!! CAST IRON BASE IS USED FOR PHOTOS ONLY. You will have to place something inside such as: a bow, round ball foam, empty container, yoga blocks, anything small enough for the headdress to sit upright.