William Shepherd Bwoo Mask

A Formal Analysis of William Shepherd’s Kuba mask
The Bwoom masquerade figure’s head set is made up of hide, a straw like material called raffia similar in texture and colour, and an intricate pattern of pigments. His facial expression is showing a very comical smile going from ear to ear, Many types of beads and shells mask his face and an intricate pattern of beads cover the back of his head in zig zags. With what looks like hair from the deceased caps his head. The collar of his suite is made of also Raffia, beads, shells, and ivory. His chest is splattered with different types of beads and shells some going horizontal and vertical others criss crossing in the middle of his back is a arrange of blues, greens, and browns. The gloves are complex with many sections of different types of beads and shells in a wide range of colours. Flowers made up of carefully placed shells adorn
The first bwoom mask was made by an artist who saw an agesh and a carved a facsimile of its head.Thus, the bwoom, like other kuba masks, are ibol- proof of the artist’s encounter with a nature spirit. Masked figures are controlled by the men’s initiation society. Bwoom appear most often during funerals society members. The Bwoom takes turns performing with other masks on the final day just before the deceased is buried.Through stamping feet and thrusting are gestures near the home of the deceased, which is surrounded by family and visitors, the bwoom suggests strength and unpredictable aggressive power.The masked figures honor the deceased and acknowledge that his family and the initiation society have fulfilled their social obligations. They also encourage his spirit to leave the living peacefully and not bring misfortune to family or community. Properly venerated, ngesh are thought and important source of fertility and healing power for humans and