Costume
Item number 3473/2 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia.
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This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.
Description
Two-piece mask (part a) and tunic (part b) costume. Mask consists of a rounded basketry headpiece, crowned with ten horns, and a rectangular panel hanging from the front. Headpiece is covered in thick braids, made of hair, which wrap around the bases of the horns. The braids then extend downward, draping over the chest and back of the wearer. Braids have red cloth tied at intervals along their length with cowrie shells hanging from their bottoms. The mask panel is covered entirely in cowrie shells with stuffed red fabric in the centre, imitating eyes and a nose. Additional cowrie shells and red fabric decorate the horns. The tunic is sleeveless and indigo-dyed, with off-white designs throughout. Designs are inside rectangular blocks across surface. Designs include: interlocking abstract “X” shapes, dots, concentric diamonds, and propeller-like shapes. Fringe decorates bottom edges and slits are cut underneath arm openings. Black cloth lining around neck opening and slits.
History Of Use
Kounga yegue mask that represents an ancestor. For the exclusive use of elder members of the Bamileke Kounga society, especially during funerals.
Narrative
Tchuemegne collected the mask from Mr. Tadie Roger in the village of Bamendjou in western Cameroon.
Item History
- Made in Cameroon
- Owned by Richard Tchuemegne before January 27, 2021
- Received from Richard Tchuemegne (Seller) and Michael O'Brian Family Foundation (Funding source) on January 27, 2021
What
- Name
- Costume
- Identification Number
- 3473/2 a-b
- Type of Item
- costume
- Material
- cotton fibre, indigo dye, hair fibre, dye, horn, cowrie shell, wood ? and plant fibre
- Part B
- height 102.1 cm, width 77.9 cm
- Part A
- height 148.0 cm, width 46.0 cm, depth 30.0 cm
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Cameroon
Who
- Culture
- Bamileke
- Previous Owner
- Richard Tchuemegne
- Received from
- Richard Tchuemegne (Seller) and Michael O'Brian Family Foundation (Funding source)
When
- Ownership Date
- before January 27, 2021
- Acquisition Date
- on January 27, 2021
Other
- Item Classes
- textiles
- Condition
- poor
- Accession Number
- 3473/0002 a-b
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