Luba Kifwebe mask
Wearing traditional masks in Congo
Luba artists sculpt masks involved in the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe society. They are easily identified by their generally softer shapes than those of their neighbors Songye or Kalebwe, which are generally more geometric and angular. A more specific type of Kifwebe masks: those of an almost circular shape like the one I am offering you here. The streaks, concentric, are present and symbolize the link between the world of the living and that of the ancestors.
Historically, the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe organization was in charge of maintaining socio-political order among the Songye, Luba and Kalebwe. In this context, the masks gave their wearer the power necessary to accomplish their task. These masks were also taken out on the occasion of initiations and funeral rites. The mask was accompanied by an imposing braided raffia headdress, and the wearer covered with a vegetable costume. This is very clearly visible on the attached pop-up photos.
To learn more about the traditional masks of the Luba, see The round masks of the Luba, J. VOLPER; as well as Kifwebe - A Century of Songye and Luba masks, 5 Continents.
01548
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1950
- Size
- 16,5 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, kaolin
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Excellent
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Wearing traditional masks in Congo
Luba artists sculpt masks involved in the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe society. They are easily identified by their generally softer shapes than those of their neighbors Songye or Kalebwe, which are generally more geometric and angular. A more specific type of Kifwebe masks: those of an almost circular shape like the one I am offering you here. The streaks, concentric, are present and symbolize the link between the world of the living and that of the ancestors.
Historically, the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe organization was in charge of maintaining socio-political order among the Songye, Luba and Kalebwe. In this context, the masks gave their wearer the power necessary to accomplish their task. These masks were also taken out on the occasion of initiations and funeral rites. The mask was accompanied by an imposing braided raffia headdress, and the wearer covered with a vegetable costume. This is very clearly visible on the attached pop-up photos.
To learn more about the traditional masks of the Luba, see The round masks of the Luba, J. VOLPER; as well as Kifwebe - A Century of Songye and Luba masks, 5 Continents.