Initiation mask – Wood, Feathers – Salampasu – Congo

Description

Large wooden mask from the Salampasu tribe of DR Congo. Stunning and frightning Salampasu mask. The wooden mask has feathers attached on top.

SALAMPASU masks are famous and are characterized by a bulging forehead, slanted eyes, a triangular nose and a rectangular mouth displaying filed teeth. This wooden mask has a beautiful coiffure. It was used for initiation ceremonies related to the warriors` society. (The Tribal Arts of Africa, Jean-Baptiste Bacquart, p180)

The 60,000 SALAMPASU people live on the frontier between the D.R. Congo and Angola.

The mask is in good condition and has a powerful appearance.

Provenance: former private Italian collection.

Object

Initiation Mask

Ethnic group:

Salampasu

Country:

Congo

Material:

Wood, Feathers, Plant fibre

Estimated period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

No

Dimensions:

55x32x20 cm

Weight:

1800 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $220.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $49.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Netherlands

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

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20%

Initiation mask – Wood, Feathers – Salampasu – Congo

Lot 0128

Estimate $250-$300May 20, 2026, 12:00 PM EDT

Starting Price

Secure

$170

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Decorative Tribal Art Sale

May 20, 2026 12:00 PM EDT

New York, NY, United States

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