"Songye Kifwebe Mask, Democratic Republic Of Congo"
Songye Kifwebe mask. Light wood with linear scarifications, rectangular mouth and triangular nose.
Note a slight burning smell coming from the dark parts.
Democratic Republic of Congo, ex. Zaire
Heavy wear Weight 545 grs Ht. 37cm x width 20cm x depth approximately 15cm (sold without support)
- 230 € -
Kifwebe masks In the Songyé language, a mask is a kifwebe. This then became the general name for the emblematic masks of Songyé art. They represent spirits and are characterized by striations engraved in the wood. They are used in ceremonies, worn by a dancer and completed by a costume woven from plant fibers and a long raffia beard, attached to the holes around the edge of the mask. The dancer who wears the male mask performs aggressive steps to frighten the enemy or the community and thus control the social order. Conversely, the dancer who dons the female mask has softer and more measured gestures, to promote the fertility of women. The difference between male and female masks is made by the wearing of the crest. Male spirits are topped with a central crest while female spirits do not. The size of the crest determines the magical power of the Songyé mask. Finally, the characteristic shape of these masks is found on other ritual objects used by secret societies such as shields.
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