An ikhoko pendant representing one of two mbuya jia kifutshi masks, either fumu or pumbu. Fumu or pumbu, these two masks from the mukanda initiation and circumcision ritual embody masculine power. The three-pointed headdress, representing the three plaits of raffia that adorned the headdress of these initiation masks, is still visible despite the heavy wear and extreme patina of this very old specimen. The piercing for the pendant attachment is transverse and takes place at the level of the headdress, without altering the readability of the sculpture. Delimited by a finely engraved zig-zag diadem (or water line), the presence of the mask is obvious. The arched forehead is powerful, the large, closed eyelids are serene, the half-open mouth reveals the carved teeth - everything here embodies strength and serenity, but also beauty. An insider's protective charm of the finest antiquity, the ikhoko from the Jean Roudillon collection is one of the ivory jewels in his collection and an exceptional example, an insider's masterpiece. Pende, Democratic Republic of Congo Ivory, old oxidation, deep wear, small missing parts (old breaks) on the central braid, sublime old patina. H. 5.5 cm For comparable specimens, see pp. 82-87 in Treasures 2008, Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, ed. Migs Grove, 2008. See: for other specimens and concerning the Mukanda p. 63 to 72 in Initiés Bassin du Congo, Musée Dapper, Ed. Dapper 2013. Provenance: Jean Roudillon Collection