Teke moon shaped masks are worn by members of the Kiduma - a secret society that takes charge of social celebrations and rituals.

The mask is held in place with a bite bar at the back which the wearer holds in his teeth.

These masks are usually decorated with geometric symbols and divided by a horizontal stripe.

They are coloured with clay and paint.

The Teke people come from the Congo Republics and Gabon. They are well known as traders and the name 'teke' means 'to buy'.

Mouse over the map for a more detailed view of Teke territory.