The objects of the mukanda initiation
Object type:
mask
Materials:
wood, pigment, vegetal fibre
Legend:
This kakungu mask was not worn by young circumcised males but by the isikika (specialist in mukanda charms). Kakungu helped to prevent the risk of haemorrhaging caused by removal of the foreskin. It kept sorcerers at a distance who might have posed a danger to the circumcised males. Lastly, it played a role in averting or summoning rain and storms.
Place of collecting:
Democratic Republic of the Congo > Bandundu > Kwango
Culture:
Suku
Field collector:
Rev. Father Omer Butaye
Acquisition related person:
Rev. Father Omer Butaye as donor
Date of acquisition:
1932-05-18
Dimensions:
60 cm x 40 cm
Inventory number:
EO.0.0.34145