Of the three masks belonging to the chiefly regalia, of the Eastern Pende people, Pumbu is deemed the most dangerous and is reserved for only the most powerful chiefs. The Pumbu mask represents the part of the executive branch that must deal with war and execution. The Pumbu, unlike the majority of other mask, is only danced on special occasions such as, when the chief is seriously ill, in times of illness or famine, when other issues are causing disruption in the community or when the chief feels threatened. Through the dancing of the Pumbu the chief asserts his authority.

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+/- 1980

RDC Zaire

Pende

38 x 25

1.000