The Kumu live in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The Kumu place a high value on loyalty to the extended family and honoring the in-laws. The Kumu are famous for their geometrically abstract style. Masks like this were used during boy’s initiation ceremonies, they were controlled by the Nsembu divination society and believed to be owned by the most prestigious persons in the community. The following Kumu mask has huge rectangular eye and mouth openings and a nose running from the forehead. It has a shallow face with a khaki worn-out patina. It shows signs of extensive usage and clear signs of old age.
