African art > African mask, tribal art, primitive art > Songye Mask

Songye Mask (N° 24275)

Features in powerful projection for this mask of limited size, whose face, offering a high crest, tightens spectacularly at cheek level. The ridged, velvety surface appears like plumage.
Erosions and slight chips. Height on base: 39 cm.
Three types of African mask Kifwebe are listed: the masculine (kilume) generally with a high crest, the feminine (kikashi) would present a more modest or even absent crest, and finally the largest embodying power (kia ndoshi).
Also practiced by the Luba, the cult kifwebe ("mask" in Songye) acted as a secret police in favor of power, so as to control individuals through magic. Worn with a long costume and a long beard made of natural fibers, Kifwebe masks also appeared during crucial stages of initiation ceremonies, at the new moon.
The Songye came from the Shaba region in the DRC and settled along the Lualaba River in the middle of savannah and forests. They are governed by the yakitengé and by local chiefs. The Bwami secret society, however, counterbalances their power.  

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Origincollection belge
EthnySongye
Countryrdc ex zaire
Material(s)wood
Height cm30
Depth14 cm
Width13 cm
Weight0.45 Kg
Socle includedYes

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