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

Songye Mask (N° 24283) Deposit sale

Belgian African art collection
This African Songye mask , an object inspired by the cubist movement, has large pupils projecting on either side of the nasal bridge. Matte polychrome patina. Three types of Kifwebe masks 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 ). In the 16th century, the Songyes migrated from the Shaba region to settle on the left bank of the Lualaba. Their society is organized in a patriarchal way. Their history is inseparable from that of the Luba, to whom they are related through common ancestors. The Songyes created impressive statues with powerful features often used during secret ceremonies, covered with accessories like feathers, skin and a horn full of magical charge. Very present in their society, divination made it possible to discover sorcerers and to shed light on the causes of the misfortunes that struck individuals. Also used by the Luba, worn with a long costume and a long beard made of natural fibers, the Kifwebe masks acted as secret police in favor of power, so as to control individuals through magic. They appeared in in addition to crucial stages of initiation ceremonies.  

190.00 
Possibility of payment in 2x (2x 95.0 €)

This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity

Estimated shipping cost





OriginCollection belge
EthnySongye
CountryCongo
Material(s)wood
Height cm64
Width21 cm
Weight2.10 Kg

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