Songye Kifwebe mask
€340.00
Authentic mask dating from the mid-20th century, originating from a Belgian private collection, and accompanied by a high-quality custom stand.
Kifwebe Songye masks are ritual objects of great importance in the culture of the Songye, a people of Central Africa primarily located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These masks are distinguished by several specific characteristics, notably their sagittal crest, their striations, and their pronounced polychromy.
Characteristics of Kifwebe Songye Masks
Sagittal Crest: Kifwebe male masks often stand out due to a prominent sagittal crest that extends from the forehead to the back of the mask. This crest symbolizes strength and power.
Characteristic Striations: The masks are adorned with striations carved into the wood, creating complex linear patterns. These striations are generally black, white, and red. They are not only decorative but also symbolic, representing concepts such as nature, social order, and the duality between good and evil.
Pronounced Polychromy: Kifwebe masks often feature pronounced polychromy. The colors used are typically black (charcoal), white (kaolin), and red (ochre). These colors have deep symbolic meanings. For example, white can represent light and clarity, while red can symbolize life or danger.
Importance and Ritual Use
Kifwebe masks play a central role in the social and religious rituals of the Songye. Here are some of the functions and ritual significances associated with these masks:
Rites of Passage: Kifwebe masks are often used in rites of passage, such as puberty rites, initiations, and funerals. They mark important transitions in an individual's life and within the community.
Power and Protection: Kifwebe masks are associated with spiritual power. The dancers who wear these masks are often considered mediators between the world of the living and the world of spirits. They invoke the protection and blessing of ancestors and spirits.
Social Regulation: The masks are also used by secret societies to maintain social order and impose justice. Masked dancers can intervene to resolve conflicts, punish transgressions, or reinforce customary laws.
Festivals and Celebrations: During festivals, Kifwebe masks are worn by dancers who perform complex choreographies. These dances are accompanied by songs and drums, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and mystical.
Kifwebe Songye masks are objects of art and ritual of great symbolic richness. Their sagittal crest, characteristic striations, and pronounced polychromy make them unique and recognizable pieces. Beyond their aesthetics, these masks play a crucial role in rites of passage, spiritual protection, social regulation, and festive celebrations of the Songye, thus contributing to the cohesion and cultural identity of the community.
02517
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 53 cm (65 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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Authentic mask dating from the mid-20th century, originating from a Belgian private collection, and accompanied by a high-quality custom stand.
Kifwebe Songye masks are ritual objects of great importance in the culture of the Songye, a people of Central Africa primarily located in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These masks are distinguished by several specific characteristics, notably their sagittal crest, their striations, and their pronounced polychromy.
Characteristics of Kifwebe Songye Masks
Sagittal Crest: Kifwebe male masks often stand out due to a prominent sagittal crest that extends from the forehead to the back of the mask. This crest symbolizes strength and power.
Characteristic Striations: The masks are adorned with striations carved into the wood, creating complex linear patterns. These striations are generally black, white, and red. They are not only decorative but also symbolic, representing concepts such as nature, social order, and the duality between good and evil.
Pronounced Polychromy: Kifwebe masks often feature pronounced polychromy. The colors used are typically black (charcoal), white (kaolin), and red (ochre). These colors have deep symbolic meanings. For example, white can represent light and clarity, while red can symbolize life or danger.
Importance and Ritual Use
Kifwebe masks play a central role in the social and religious rituals of the Songye. Here are some of the functions and ritual significances associated with these masks:
Rites of Passage: Kifwebe masks are often used in rites of passage, such as puberty rites, initiations, and funerals. They mark important transitions in an individual's life and within the community.
Power and Protection: Kifwebe masks are associated with spiritual power. The dancers who wear these masks are often considered mediators between the world of the living and the world of spirits. They invoke the protection and blessing of ancestors and spirits.
Social Regulation: The masks are also used by secret societies to maintain social order and impose justice. Masked dancers can intervene to resolve conflicts, punish transgressions, or reinforce customary laws.
Festivals and Celebrations: During festivals, Kifwebe masks are worn by dancers who perform complex choreographies. These dances are accompanied by songs and drums, creating an atmosphere that is both festive and mystical.
Kifwebe Songye masks are objects of art and ritual of great symbolic richness. Their sagittal crest, characteristic striations, and pronounced polychromy make them unique and recognizable pieces. Beyond their aesthetics, these masks play a crucial role in rites of passage, spiritual protection, social regulation, and festive celebrations of the Songye, thus contributing to the cohesion and cultural identity of the community.