A KUBA ROYAL CEREMONIAL COSTUME,Bwaantshy. comprising a beaded helmet mask with feathers, a vest and trousers with cowrie shells, four beaded with amulets, an aluminum necklace with horn amulets, four blue and white beaded bracelets, a pair of aluminum ankle bracelets with geometric motifs, four small and four large shell and bead bracelets, two cowrie shell, bead, and nut ankle bracelets, two leather, bead, bone, and shell gloves and shoes, a wide shell and bead belt, a narrow shell and bead belt, two shell and cord belts, two leopard walet and two "bwin" (blankets), two "chasse mouches" with copper inlaid wood handles an aluminum ring and monkey hair (39) Estimate $15,000-20,000
Note: Papers of authenticity available.
REFERENCE:
For a similar costume see Joseph Cornet, "Art Royal Kuba" ill. p. 247
PROVENANCE:
Property from the estate of King Bope Mabintshi Waa Mbeek, Kuba, Democratic Republic of Congo.
