Mask "kifwebe" ·  D. R. Congo, Songye · ID: 3041035

Description

wood, kaolin, black and red paint, encrusted in parts, characteristic features: box shape and fine grooved surface, remains of a net-like plant fibre costume backside, slightly dam., minor missing parts (along lower rim), metal base;
“kifwebe” represents a spirit being and belongs to the association which bears the same name, “bwadi ka bifwebe”. Present mask has a whitened facial plane and flat forehead crest, which proves her to be female. Female masks, called “kikashi”, represent positive powers and are mainly used at masquerades taking place at night, for example at important moon ceremonies, or in case of death of a chief.