African Kuba Helmet Mask

This mask is one of the many Kuba masks from Zaire.  Mythical orgins and royal power struggles are reenacted ritually with a triad of masks during important initiation and funeral ceremonies.
A mask is worn by a royal dignitary and representing both the God Woot and the king.
In addition to the Royal Traid, there or other type of Kuba masks, the use of mask with horns is still some what of a mystery. However it is believed they were used for initiation rights.