Loading

This mask is a part of "Yaka" culture in which initiation ceremonies known as "Mukanda" are celebrated. These ceremonies mark the coming of age of young boys, aged between 10 and 15, when they are separated from the community. A ritual leader, who wears this mask, is responsible for leading the adolescents into a wood where they are circumcised, which is a display of their power and courage and prepares them for marriage. During the ritual, the young boys hide their identity behind their own masks until the ceremony is over and they are shown to their mothers and others as new members of the adult world. Women are excluded from the “Mukanda”, but they wish for their sons and husbands to attend the ceremony as its primary mission is the continuity and growth of the family.

Details

  • Title: Yaka Mask
  • Creator: Unknown
  • Date Created: 1900/1940
  • Physical Dimensions: w47 x h56 x d40 cm
  • Type: Sculpture / Ritual Objects
  • External Link: CERES
  • Photographer: Pablo Linés Viñuales, 2010
  • Materials: Wood, fibers, pigments
  • Cultural Context: Yaka, Democratic Republic of Congo

Get the app

Explore museums and play with Art Transfer, Pocket Galleries, Art Selfie, and more

Flash this QR Code to get the app

Interested in Food?

Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly

You are all set!

Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.

Google apps