This is the rating and price for Songye Kifwebe Male Mask

Description : Songye Kifwebe Male mask from Democratic Republic of Congo formally Zaire. A stunning styled example of a mid 20th Century Songye Kifwebe male mask with a large crest and protruding eyes and mouth. The mask features the signature central crest and striation of the kifewebe masks but shows marks of superior craftsmanship. First, the striations on this mask are better stylized than on the average Songye mask.ÊSongye masks are believed to be embodiments of spirits and their magic measured by the size of the crest on the mask. They are worn by men during tribal ceremonies on the behest of the chief to maintain order by their aggressive dances. The white striations on the mask connotes the positive attributes of purity and peace. Kifwebe masks were made for the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe association, a type of policing society that provided a means of controlling social behavior and neutralizing disruptive elements within the group. These masks appeared at the installation and death of a chief, and at the initiation rites of young men as well as a whole range of occasions that included punishments, warfare and public works. Wood Pigment. Condition good. few small edge chips between holes and shrinkage crack by nose trailing up stylized crest. H. 21'' W. 10'' D. 8 1/2''. ''Provenance Anne Narosny African Art Collection Estate'' Sale # 1 of 3''
Price: 123.00 USD It's free to register now to view!
Estimate (low-high) : 400 USD-600 USD It's free to register now to view!

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