Click Here for New Arrivals! African mask: Harassed by their neighbors the Kwele were forced to reside in the northern region of the Congo and in the country of Gabon. Artistically they are known for the famous “Ekuk” mask. The word ekuk means “forest spirit and children of Beete.” This unique mask is characterized by having a whitened heart shaped face with coffee bean eyes which is framed by either two protruding abstract horns that in some cases are joined together at the ends forming a circular design that encases the face. The Ekuk is used during an important Beete festivity that serves to reinforce the unity between the 12 Kwele families that occupy the village. The week long ceremony opened with the departure of all able bodied men into the forest to hunt for antelope. The meat would later be seasoned with special medicines an eaten by all during the closing ceremony. Women and children would stay in the village and prepare for the festivities. After about a day or two simultaneously with the return of the first hunters, the women would start to hang the Ekuk masks outside their dwellings and around the village. The masks announced the commencement of the celebration and to invite all to join in with song and dance! Please click photo for enlargement! See another photo and Order button below. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message!
Dimensions: 14 inches tall x 12 inches wide. Wt: 7 lbs. shipping **For a complete inventory listing please go to the 'Index' section on the Navigation Bar to your right** |
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