Salampasu mask, type Mukinka, DRC Congo. Within the hierarchy of masks worn by the Salampasu tribe, copper-covered masks were considered the highest in rank. Worn during war ceremonies, in honor of brave "headhunters". The balls of braided fibers seem to symbolize masculinity. Masks with copper plates, as a rule, are older than masks with copper strips. Provenance: collected in the 1950s in the then Belgian Congo, estate, private Dutch collection. Beautiful patina