Wooden Songye Kifwebe mask
Songye Kifwebe mask
Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Culture: Songye peoples
Dimensions: 39cm L x 20cm W x 14cm D.
Weight: 872g
Material: wood
Condition: good for its age - see photos
The Songye Kifwebe Mask, originates from the Songye people of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is a symbolic form of African tribal art. Carved from wood, these masks are characterised by bold patterns, prominent crests and are typically coloured red, black, and white.
The masks are often associated with rites of passage, and ceremonies related to governance and justice. They are divided into two main types; male and female. The male mask represents authority and strength. The female mask, more subtle with a rounded form, signifies fertility and nurturing.
The history of the Songye Kifwebe mask dates back to the early to mid-20th century, within secret societies such as the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe. These societies used the masks during initiation rituals and community events, reinforcing social structures and spiritual beliefs. Over time, the Kifwebe Mask has become a symbol of cultural identity and spiritual connection.
Songye Kifwebe mask
Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Culture: Songye peoples
Dimensions: 39cm L x 20cm W x 14cm D.
Weight: 872g
Material: wood
Condition: good for its age - see photos
The Songye Kifwebe Mask, originates from the Songye people of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is a symbolic form of African tribal art. Carved from wood, these masks are characterised by bold patterns, prominent crests and are typically coloured red, black, and white.
The masks are often associated with rites of passage, and ceremonies related to governance and justice. They are divided into two main types; male and female. The male mask represents authority and strength. The female mask, more subtle with a rounded form, signifies fertility and nurturing.
The history of the Songye Kifwebe mask dates back to the early to mid-20th century, within secret societies such as the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe. These societies used the masks during initiation rituals and community events, reinforcing social structures and spiritual beliefs. Over time, the Kifwebe Mask has become a symbol of cultural identity and spiritual connection.
Songye Kifwebe mask
Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Culture: Songye peoples
Dimensions: 39cm L x 20cm W x 14cm D.
Weight: 872g
Material: wood
Condition: good for its age - see photos
The Songye Kifwebe Mask, originates from the Songye people of the Democratic Republic of Congo and is a symbolic form of African tribal art. Carved from wood, these masks are characterised by bold patterns, prominent crests and are typically coloured red, black, and white.
The masks are often associated with rites of passage, and ceremonies related to governance and justice. They are divided into two main types; male and female. The male mask represents authority and strength. The female mask, more subtle with a rounded form, signifies fertility and nurturing.
The history of the Songye Kifwebe mask dates back to the early to mid-20th century, within secret societies such as the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe. These societies used the masks during initiation rituals and community events, reinforcing social structures and spiritual beliefs. Over time, the Kifwebe Mask has become a symbol of cultural identity and spiritual connection.