Lot 442

Early Kuba Bushoong Initiation Mask, Tubular Eyes, ex-Coe

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Early Kuba Bushoong Initiation Mask, Tubular Eyes, ex-Coe

Estimate: $500 - $750

Current Bid: $75

(1 Bid)

by Artemis Fine Arts
July 30, 2026 8:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kasai Province, Kuba peoples, Bushoong subgroup, ca. early 20th century CE. An Ishyeen Imaalu mask used in male initiation ceremonies, this example is rich in sculptural and symbolic detail. The carved wooden face is painted with dark and white pigments in a stark linear pattern and features dramatically protruding tubular eyes, believed to represent the chameleon's omnidirectional vision - a metaphor for heightened perception and vigilance. A headdress crowns the mask, constructed from a stick framework covered in woven Kuba cloth, bark strips, and raffia fibers. At its apex is a striking crest of chicken feathers. Size: 19" L x 12" W (48.3 cm x 30.5 cm)

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; acquired in 2002 from Taylor Dale (TAD) Gallery, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA.

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Item # 196298

  • Condition: Tears and holes through cloth. Active flaking when handled. Abrasions and chips to wood, but otherwise good condition.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 $29,999 $1,000
$30,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000