Moshwambwooy masks are the most important masks in the Kuba culture.  They are above all a symbol for Woot, founder of the Kuba.  The white beard of the old man represents the beard of a wise old man rich in experience as well.  Such masks are worn by the Kuba king, or nyim, as well as by prominent chiefs, when they are receiving homage from subordinates to sumbolize their wisdom, experience, and right through descent from founding lineages to rule.

Early 20th Century