Used in initiation ceremonies for
young men. After a long period
of training in an nkanda initiation
camp, he wore the mask to introduce his new status. When the
nkanda session closed, hemba
masqueraders danced into Suku
villages. The Hemba served as
a safeguard at a time of change
for the young adult ("Tudansi").
The Suku live in an area between the rivers Kwango and
Kwilu in the Congo.
24.5"H x 18"W x 18"D
NOTE: Measurements include raffia fiber.
