Mask – Wood – Kifwebe – Songye – Congo DRC

Beautiful authentic Kifwebe mask from the SONGYE tribe of D.R. Congo. They are called Kifwebe, which means `mask`in the Songye language. Typically, it has a face covered with linear incisions, a square protruding mouth and a linear nose set between globular pierced eyes. This is a female mask with plain coiffure.

During initiation, circumcision or funeral ceremonies, a dancer will wear the mask and his body will be covered with straw. The dancer who wears the female mask displays more gentle and controlled movements and is assumed to be associated with reproduction ceremonies.
Good condition with traces of wear and tear.

Provenance: Justin Barthels (1934-2021), gallery owner Maastricht. Ex owner of a Salampasu mask DR Congo Estimated 60.000 – 90.000 USD by Sotheby`s. Source: (https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/africanoceanic-n08858/lot.189.html)
Provenance: Justin Barthels (1934-2021), gallery owner Maastricht (NL). Ex owner of a Salampasu mask DR Congo Estimated 60.000 – 90.000 USD by Sotheby`s. Source: (https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/africanoceanic-n08858/lot.189.html)