Songye Kifwebe Kilume mask
Social use of African masks
Famous African mask from the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe society among the Songye. This remarkable traditional mask with a futuristic look was worn by members of the eponymous congregation responsible for enforcing the moral and socio-political order within the Basongye and sub-groups. Note that we also find the use of these masks among the Kalebwe and the Luba, also in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The mask proposed here is bleached with kaolin and dotted with long characteristic streaks, here very fine. The eyes, mouth and nose are protruding. The nose also extends into an imposing summit ridge indicating that it is a kifwebe mask of the kilume type, that is to say masculine. Indeed, the female masks called kikashi, are devoid of it or the crest is at least atrophied.
01863
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 24 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, kaolin
- Country
- Origin
- Gathered in situ
- Condition
- Excellent
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Social use of African masks
Famous African mask from the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe society among the Songye. This remarkable traditional mask with a futuristic look was worn by members of the eponymous congregation responsible for enforcing the moral and socio-political order within the Basongye and sub-groups. Note that we also find the use of these masks among the Kalebwe and the Luba, also in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The mask proposed here is bleached with kaolin and dotted with long characteristic streaks, here very fine. The eyes, mouth and nose are protruding. The nose also extends into an imposing summit ridge indicating that it is a kifwebe mask of the kilume type, that is to say masculine. Indeed, the female masks called kikashi, are devoid of it or the crest is at least atrophied.