Kuba Kingdom ,DR Congo Prince Pongo Kwete Francklin getting ready for the ceremony.
One of the Prince chiefs is adorning the Prince Pongo Kwete with shell bracelets.
Closer look at the shell bracelets that the Prince Penge Kowto will wear during the ceremony
In this photo is presented splendidly decorated cap, a symbol of man social standing and accomplishments within the Kuba society.
The cap is adorned with a magnificent array of materials that narrate the wearer's success. Delicate appliquéd cowry shells and blue beads form an eye-catching pattern, representing not only the region's historical currency but also qualities associated with religious purity, prominence, and leadership.
Each bead, meticulously placed, denotes the wearer's wealth and status, while the colors symbolize his esteemed role in Kuba society.
Kuba Kingdom Prince Pongo Kwete Francklin, DR Congo.The Kingdom of Kuba, also known as the Bushongo Kingdom, emerged in the 17th century in what is now the central region of the DRC. It was a sophisticated society characterized by a complex political structure, remarkable craftsmanship, and a rich cultural tapestry. The Kuba people, known for their agricultural expertise and trading networks, established a highly organized monarchy that flourished for centuries.
Prince Pongo Kwete traditional royal skirt made of Kuba cloth. Kuba cloth is a revered symbol of status and importance, captivating wearers with its timeless allure. Its distinct weaving and embroidery techniques have endured through the ages, garnering admiration even in contemporary times. These extraordinary cloths feature intricate designs and surface decorations, with geometric motifs expertly crafted using linear embroidery and various stitches. Often fashioned from woven palm leaf fiber, they exhibit a plush velvet-like texture, showcasing the artistry and complexity of their creation.
The back of the Prince Pongo Kwete outfit.
Kuba cloth is a revered symbol of status and importance, captivating wearers with its timeless allure. Its distinct weaving and embroidery techniques have endured through the ages, garnering admiration even in contemporary times. These extraordinary cloths feature intricate designs and surface decorations, with geometric motifs expertly crafted using linear embroidery and various stitches. Often fashioned from woven palm leaf fiber, they exhibit a plush velvet-like texture, showcasing the artistry and complexity of their creation.
The Woot mask is a highly esteemed and symbolic artifact among the people of the Kuba tribe. Its significance lies in its association with the mythical figure Woot, who is believed to be the descendant of the first king of the Kuba. Only individuals of royal lineage have the honor of wearing the Woot mask. At the top of the mask, there is an elephant trunk, which serves as a royal emblem, representing strength, power, and authority. On either side of the mask, two beaded strips are incorporated, symbolizing the majestic tusks of an elephant.
Beneath the chin, the mask features white fur, which represents the wisdom that the ruler gains over time through age and experience. This signifies the importance of knowledge and the accumulation of wisdom in a leader.Blue beads represent high rank, emphasizing the noble status and authority of the king. Finally, white beads symbolize purity and faithfulness, signifying the ruler's commitment to truth, honesty, and moral integrity in governing the kingdom
Traditional dance in Kuba Kingdom during ceremony
Chief of the Kuba Kingdom, DR Congo
Traditional Royal and Chiefs outfits.
Prince Pongo Kwete and his chiefs on the way to the ceremony.
Tradional dance by Prince Pongo Kwete performed.
The Royal family of Kuba Kingdom, DR congo.
In this photo, a man wearing a Bwoom mask commands attention with his aggressive and boorish demeanor. The mask, representing brutishness and commonness, adds an air of mystery and intensity to his presence.
Dancer with Bwoom mask
One of the Kuba Kingdom Chiefs in his traditional clothes
In this photograph, a man stands tall, his countenance displaying a sense of profound reverence and admiration. In his hands, he delicately holds a mesmerizing Mweel mask, an exquisite representation of the ideal, beautiful woman in a culture rich with symbolism.
Diamond patterns emphasize her smooth brow; white and black triangles represent hearth and home; lines on cheeks represent tears because of the pain women must bear and also because these are funerary masks.
In this photo, a man is wearing a Bwoom mask . The mask, representing brutishness and commonness, adds an air of mystery and intensity to his presence.
Kuba Kingdom ,DR congo Prince Pongo Kwete in his tradiotional Royal outfit.
