Objet 
6 June 2019
Objet 
550

Yaka artist

yisanunu (hair combs), set of two

Democratic Republic of the Congo, Early 20th Century
carved wood
estimate: $5,000–7,000
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Sold with stands.
provenance: Baudouin de Grunne Collection, Brussels, Belgium | Private Collection, New York
A similar example of these works is held in the collection of The Metroplitan Museum of Art.

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Combs such as these are worn by high-ranking Yaka men. Status and prestige are reflected in the carved figures' elaborate coiffures and headdresses. Characteristic of Yaka combs are the three tapering teeth, incised geometric design and mask-like heads, which recall the masks worn by high-ranking men as well as those worn in initiation ceremonies for boys.

A Yaka mask that would be worn by a circumcised youth to protect him during his transition into manhood. The upturned nose, geometric designs, domed headdress and bared teeth are all echoed in the present pair of combs.
550