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In the heart of the Democratic Republic of Congo, lies the magnificent and enigmatic Kuba Kingdom. It's a realm of breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and untamed wilderness. I embarked on a journey to this mythical place, seeking an adventure that would test my limits and leave an indelible mark on my soul.

The Kuba Kingdom , emerged in the 17th century in what is now the central region of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This flourishing society boasted a complex political structure, exceptional craftsmanship, and a vibrant culture. Renowned for their agricultural expertise and extensive trade networks, the Kuba people established a well-organized monarchy that thrived for centuries.
One of the most notable aspects of the Kuba Kingdom was its extraordinary artistic traditions. Gifted craftsmen produced exquisite textiles, pottery, masks, and jewelry, showcasing the richness of the kingdom's culture. The renowned raffia cloth, intricately woven from palm leaf fibers, featured elaborate geometric patterns and symbols representing ancestral wisdom and social status.
In addition to textiles, Kuba artisans created remarkable wooden sculptures and elaborate ceremonial objects. 
Ruled by a line of powerful kings, the Kuba Kingdom reached its pinnacle during the reign of King Shyaam a-Mbul a Ngoong. King Shyaam's diplomatic finesse, military might, and support of the arts led the kingdom to a golden era of unmatched power and influence.
However, as time passed and external pressures mounted, the Kingdom of Kuba gradually faded from prominence. Its power weakened, and the kingdom became a relic of the past. 

Among the many ceremonies that grace the Kuba Kingdom, the preparation  of Prince Pongo Kwete stands as a rare and mesmerizing spectacle that weaves the threads of history, tradition, and mystique into a remarkable tapestry.The Kuba Kingdom, has always placed great importance on its ceremonies, and none more so than the rite of preparing Prince Pongo Kwete for an important occasion.The meticulous preparation of Prince Pongo  Kwete is a process that unfolds over several hours, marked by a symphony of intricate rituals and the harmonious cooperation of his loyal chiefs, each assigned a unique role in the transformation. These chiefs play a vital part in ensuring that the prince embodies the essence of his ancestors and carries the weight of their legacy.
One of the key roles is that of the the royal dresser. This esteemed chief is responsible for adorning Prince Pongo Kwete with the meticulously crafted royal garments, each thread telling a story of the Kuba Kingdom's history. Every piece of attire, from the intricately designed capes to the regal headdresses, is carefully chosen to reflect the prince's lineage and the importance of the occasion.
Central to this ceremony are the masks, which hold a profound significance in Kuba culture. These masks are not mere decorative artifacts; rather, they are revered symbols that encapsulate the essence of the kingdom's creation story. Each mask has its own tale to tell, woven into the collective memory of the Kuba people. 
According to their oral tradition, the Kuba traces its origins back to the mythical creator god, Mbombo.The world began as a dark and watery expanse, with Mbombo alone in its depths. In a moment of divine intervention, he fell ill and vomited forth the sun, bringing light and causing the waters to evaporate, giving birth to the Earth itself.
Mbombo's sickness continued, and with each retch, he brought into existence new celestial wonders—the moon, stars, and planets. He divided the day into 12 hours of light and 12 hours of night, setting the rhythm for life on Earth. As Mbombo's vomits continued, he created various aspects of the world until, at last, he fashioned Woot, a supernatural being who would become the first human and a bringer of civilization to the land.
The Kuba people, often referred to as "the sons of Woot," hold a profound reverence for this legendary figure. They believe that their kings are the reincarnations of Woot himself, carrying on his legacy as leaders of the kingdom. The Kuba Kingdom's ceremonies feature three major masks, each telling a vital part of this captivating creation myth.
The first of these masks is Mwaash aMbooy, symbolizing the royal power of Woot. This mask represents the mythical first king and founder of the Kuba people, embodying his spirit and authority. Only the king's appointees can wear the mask because Woot is a mythical descendant of the first king. The mask is in the shape of an elephant, because the elephant is a royal emblem.The two beaded bands represent the teeth. The raffia fur represents the wisdom a ruler gains with age and experience.The mask is decorated with cowrie shells (which were once used as currency), leather and beads.Red beads indicate happiness, blue ones indicate high rank and white ones symbolize purity and fidelity.

Then there is Ngaady aMwaash, also known as the "pawn woman" of Mwaash aMbooy, believed to be Woot's first wife and sister, from whom all Kuba royalty descends. However, their incestuous relationship resulted in illness and disunity, leading Woot to flee from his wife. This cautionary tale against incest serves to separate Woot from the realm of mortals.

The third mask, Bwoom, represents the non-royal elements of the Kuba Kingdom. In the myth, Bwoom is an outsider, often associated with foreign origins or even being a pygmy. Bwoom's presence in ceremonial dances alongside Mwaash aMbooy symbolizes a mock rivalry for the affections of Ngaady aMwaash. While Mwaash aMbooy's dance is characterized by grace and dignity, Bwoom exudes pride and aggression. Regardless of its role, Bwoom is always considered a spirit. This multifaceted character symbolizes the common people and embodies rebellion and challenge against the throne.

My journey to the Kuba Kingdom allowed me to witness the remnants of this ancient realm and capture its captivating essence through my lens. By sharing the enduring culture of the Kuba Kingdom and exploring the significance of their intricate masks, I hope to shed light on this forgotten piece of history and inspire others to appreciate the beauty and richness of our world's diverse heritage.Preserving the memory of the Kingdom of Kuba is crucial not only for the people of the DRC but also for humanity as a whole. It serves as a reminder of Africa's rich and diverse heritage, challenging misconceptions and stereotypes often associated with the continent. By appreciating and celebrating the lost kingdom's achievements, we acknowledge the intellectual, artistic, and cultural contributions that have shaped our world.

Biljana Jurukovski photography

Jean Michel

IN THE HEART OF DR CONGO: ART, TRADITION AND CULTURE