A absolutely stunning Yaka 'Kholuka' Tribal mask sourced from The DRC Congo cf. the example illustrated in 'The Tribal Arts Of Africa' JB Bacquart, pg187. The Yaka maintain a masquerading tradition associated with boys initiation and circumcision rites (Mukhanda). The ceremonies are intended to further the adolescents social and physical maturity, and in particular to insure their virility as a guarantee of the communitys future. The Northern Yaka consider this mask one of the most significant types used in this context. it is worn only by the supervisors of the initiates. Its dance concludes the ceremony that marks the end of seclusion. The dances are accompanied by songs concerned with adult masculinity, intended to confirm the new social status of the young men. Ref: 'African Masks' The Barbier Mueller Collection This is a superb example of an very old Yaka mask showing good signs of age and Tribal use.

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