Collector’s Journal Entry
Date: August 2, 2025
Time: 4:17 AM
Location: Antwerp Shop
Item: Ritual Makishi Mask – Zambia (Luvale or Chokwe tradition), Unknown Maker
Material: Wood, pigment, cloth
Estimated Age: Early 20th century
Acquisition: Returned by previous buyer after two unsettling weeks
Notes:
The mask came back today.
I had warned the buyer — “Don’t hang it in your bedroom.” He laughed it off, charmed by its expression, the ceremonial wear, the patina of power.
Two weeks later, he looked like the mask had been feeding on his sleep. Pale, unshaven, eyes bruised with exhaustion. He left it on the counter like it was still breathing.
“I can’t explain it,” he said. “But I don’t want it near me.”
He asked no refund.
I took it back.
Tonight, I placed it under linen in the back room. But as I turned off the lights, I swear I heard soft murmurs. Not words, but rhythm — like distant drumming.
Will follow up with cleansing protocol tomorrow.
No display. Not yet.
This one sleeps upright.
— David Norden