Face Mask

Item

Title

Face Mask

Description

This is unrelated to The time period of Harlem but it's an important aspect of history I felt necessary to include, this Face mask of oval form with multi-perforations on two sides and a raised H-shaped panel in the center. This rare mask is worn by an executioner or "Kumi" during circumcision rituals and funerals of the Lilwa society. The side areas are painted with a mixture of kaolin and palm oil and the middle or center section is stained a dark brown and is highly patinated.

Date

20th Century

Medium

Hard Wood, Kaolin, Palm Oil

Source

Framingham State African Art Teaching Collection

Item sets