Kwele Pipibudze mask
Aesthetics and initiation in African art
African Kwele masks were linked to the initiatory beete society, to which eminent citizens and warriors belonged. His rites were organized on the occasion of community events: initiations, funerals, etc. It makes it possible to mobilize the magical power of the group in order to resolve crises and support the collective life of the village, in particular hunting.
In addition, the objects of the beete were a social and political marker. They were kept in a dedicated house used by only initiates.
Only a small number of masks were actually used for public dances and could be seen by women. Among these, the anthropomorphic masks pipibudze meaning "man" or "boy".
The pipibudze-type Kwele face mask that I am offering here was brought back from the French Congo in the 1980s. The classic heart-shaped face is topped with a flat forehead.
On the wide side faces, there are two holes drilled for hanging or carrying. Its stylization is quite unique in African art.
02092
Data sheet
- Size
- 29,5 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, kaolin
- Country
- Condition
- Excellent
Aesthetics and initiation in African art
African Kwele masks were linked to the initiatory beete society, to which eminent citizens and warriors belonged. His rites were organized on the occasion of community events: initiations, funerals, etc. It makes it possible to mobilize the magical power of the group in order to resolve crises and support the collective life of the village, in particular hunting.
In addition, the objects of the beete were a social and political marker. They were kept in a dedicated house used by only initiates.
Only a small number of masks were actually used for public dances and could be seen by women. Among these, the anthropomorphic masks pipibudze meaning "man" or "boy".
The pipibudze-type Kwele face mask that I am offering here was brought back from the French Congo in the 1980s. The classic heart-shaped face is topped with a flat forehead.
On the wide side faces, there are two holes drilled for hanging or carrying. Its stylization is quite unique in African art.