Young Male Kifwebe Mask - Songye People, DRC - Tribal Art
Young Male Kifwebe Mask.The kifwebe masks embodied supernatural forces and is characterized by striations.The kifwebe society used them to ward off disaster or any threat. The masks, supplemented by a woven costume and a long beard of raffia, dance at various ceremonies. They are worn by men who act as police at the behest of a ruler, or to intimidate the enemy. The size of the crest determines the magic power of the mask. Mask, colors, and costume all have symbolic meaning. The dancer who wears the male mask will display aggressive and uncontrolled behavior with the aim of encouraging social conformity. The use of white on the mask symbolizes positive concepts such as purity and peace, the moon and light. Red is associated with blood and fire, courage and fortitude, but also with danger and evil. The mask had also the capacity to heal by means of the supernatural force it was supposed to incorporate.
Dated to the second quarter of the 20th century
Dimensions approx. 65 x 24 x 38 cm
Tribal Art / African Art
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