African Art Songye The African initiation masks of the Songye . In the south of the Democratic Republic of Congo, this type of female mask "kalyanga" which offers finely striated planes accentuating its volumes, is still worn today with a long costume and a long beard of natural fibers, during masked rituals. Matte patina, minor abrasions and desiccation cracks. Height on base: 60 cm. Three variants of this type of Kifwebe mask (pl. Bifwebe) or "hunting death" (Roberts) can be distinguished: the masculine (kilume) generally with a high crest, the feminine (kikashi) with a very low crest or even absent, and finally the largest embodying power (kia ndoshi). The Songye came from the Shaba region in the DRC and settled along the Lualaba River. They are governed by the yakitengé and by local chiefs. However, the Bwami secret society counterbalances their power. Their male masks belonging to the Bwadi bwa kifwebe brotherhood, with occult powers, intervened during punitive and disciplinary expeditions.
280.00 € Possibility of payment in 2x (2x 140.0 €) This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity
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