Kuba Bwoom Helmet Mask
Kuba helmet mask was broken at top and covered with raffia cloth. Hair coming from top glass beads, copper sheets, seed and cowry shells (a symbol of wealth), animal skin beard are all on the mask. Holes in nostrils to see through when being worn...no eyeholes in mask
7/29/2026: a fine example of classic form, with pursed lips, flaring nostrils, and domed forehead, adorned with incised patterns, beads, copper beaten plates, animal hair, cowrie shells, and seed pods, the whole exhibiting
considerable signs of age and use. (From appraisal document). IS
- Object: Kuba Bwoom Helmet Mask
- Artist: -
- Circa: -
- Dimensions: 12" high 9" wide 15" deep
- Culture Area: Africa Central Zaire
- Cultural Group: Kuba
- Cultural Context: Bwoom Mask Arts of Africa Kuba mythology revolves around three figures, each represented by a masquerade character: Woot, the creator and founder of the ruling dynasty; Woot’s spouse; and Bwoom. Bwoom’s specific identity varies according to different versions of the myth. He may represent the king’s younger brother, a person of Twa descent, or a commoner. Embodying a subversive force within the royal court, the Bwoom masquerade is often performed in conflict with the masked figure representing Woot. https://www.brooklynmuseum.org/opencollection/objects/4828
- Donor: Dr. John D Spenst
- Catalog #: 87.018