Knife with half figure and "kifwebe" mask ·  D. R. Congo, Songye · ID: 3051842

Description

wood, metal, base

The mask is completely covered with grooves and its features are exaggerated to the point of mannerism.

For comparable work, possibly from the same workshop, see AHDRC 0042301.

The design of the handle makes it clear that this is not a functional knife, but a pure show knife designed to impress.

The object Knife with half figure and “kifwebe” mask with the object ID 3051842 was last part of the auction Auction 104 at April 12, 2025 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 376.

You can find more Masks, Figures and other popular object types on our related topic pages. You may also be interested in our page on African art.

Comparing literature

Rider, Ethan, 100 African Blades, Vol. II, San Francisco 2023, p. 186 f, ill. 84