Luba Songye Kifwebe Kikashi Mask - SOLD OUT
A wood african mask forming a helmet shape with domed top, tapering to the middle and flaring to the base. The eyes are formed of thin slits with arched brows above, the nose a wedge shape and the mouth an open projecting inverted ‘D’shape. The entire surface is engraved with chevron lines.
In the Songye language, a mask is a kifwebe, a term that has been given to masks representing spirits and characterized by striations. The kifwebe masks embodied supernatural forces. The kifwebe society used them to ward off disaster or any threat, and the masks, supplemented by a woven costume and a long beard of raffia, dance at various ceremonies. They are worn by men who act as police at the behest of a ruler, or to intimidate the enemy.
Luba and Songye people are located in South-East Democratic Republic of the Congo.
01153
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1940
- Size
- 41 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, kaolin
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Excellent
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A wood african mask forming a helmet shape with domed top, tapering to the middle and flaring to the base. The eyes are formed of thin slits with arched brows above, the nose a wedge shape and the mouth an open projecting inverted ‘D’shape. The entire surface is engraved with chevron lines.
In the Songye language, a mask is a kifwebe, a term that has been given to masks representing spirits and characterized by striations. The kifwebe masks embodied supernatural forces. The kifwebe society used them to ward off disaster or any threat, and the masks, supplemented by a woven costume and a long beard of raffia, dance at various ceremonies. They are worn by men who act as police at the behest of a ruler, or to intimidate the enemy.
Luba and Songye people are located in South-East Democratic Republic of the Congo.