Face Mask
Item
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Accession Number
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2020.22
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Title
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Face Mask
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Ethnic Group
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Bushoong
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Subject
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Mask|Initiation|Central Africa
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Country
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Democratic Republic of the Congo
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Date
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20th century
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Medium
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Wood, Palm Oil, Fiber, Fabric, Fiber, Feathers, Cowrie Shell
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Format
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H x W x D: 9 x 10 x 13 in. (22.86 x 25.4 x 33.02 cm)
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Description
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A face mask with an ornate headdress known as "pwoom Itok" is used in initiation ceremonies. The headdress is composed of fabric, fiber, feathers, and cowrie shells. The mask has a simulated hairline and beard, appointed forehead, bulging, protruding eyes surrounded by perforations, a large wide nose, and a small, stylized mouth. It is coated with a black encrusted pigment.
