Mask "pibibuze"

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Description

light-weighted wood, heart-shaped deepened facial plane, dyed with red pigment, the rim zone with dark brown patina, especially incisive are the raised crescent-shaped eyes, dam., minor missing parts (eyes, nose, vertical ridge at the chin), paint rubbed off, crack (left face half), small traces of insect caused damage, socle;
the Kwele call these masks “pibibuze” which means as much as “human being”. They were used in the “bwete” cult at ceremonies for initiation and mourning. Nowadays they are just shown on ritual occasions but according to I. Hahner-Herzog in former times they even seem to be worn for masquerades attached to special headcrests.

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Comparing literature

Hahner-Herzog, Iris, Das Zweite Gesicht, Genf, München, New York 1997, ill. 71

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Publications

David, Jean & Jane, Gabon, Zürich 2005, p. 163

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