Songye Kifwebe owl mask
The animal world in African art
Here is an astonishing African mask from the Songye. We know the famous Kifwebe masks with highly stylized human features but we meet less often the animal versions of these masks. This is an owl mask intended to represent the nocturnal raptor in silent flight capable of feeding on animal flesh. These masks are specifically the prerogative of magic and witchcraft.
We observe on this mask features in common with the more classic kifwebe masks whose work at the level of numerous and fine streaks, encrusted with kaolin or dark pigment in alternating groups. There are also the large extruded eyes and the high sagittal crest characterizing the masculinity of the mask.
For more information: KIFWEBE: a century of Songye and Luba masks, F. NEYT, 5 Continents
01484
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1950
- Size
- 44 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, kaolin
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Very good
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The animal world in African art
Here is an astonishing African mask from the Songye. We know the famous Kifwebe masks with highly stylized human features but we meet less often the animal versions of these masks. This is an owl mask intended to represent the nocturnal raptor in silent flight capable of feeding on animal flesh. These masks are specifically the prerogative of magic and witchcraft.
We observe on this mask features in common with the more classic kifwebe masks whose work at the level of numerous and fine streaks, encrusted with kaolin or dark pigment in alternating groups. There are also the large extruded eyes and the high sagittal crest characterizing the masculinity of the mask.
For more information: KIFWEBE: a century of Songye and Luba masks, F. NEYT, 5 Continents