Large sized Songye Female Kifwebe mask from The Congo circa 1920s.
Traditionally, the Kifwebe mask is very symbolic in the Bantu culture of central Africa.
Its striking colours and carving symbolise the battle between good and evil.
Female Kifwebe masks represent femininity, the continuation of life and a good omen.
These masks were used for wedding ceremonies, reproduction rituals and other such occasions.
This large mask has a dramatic and expressive colourful face.
The overall shape is broad at the crown (eyes level upwards) and slightly tapered from the nose downwards.
Decorated with broad curved bands of indented carving in plain wood, russet red, indigo blue colour and white.
Large bulging coffee bean shaped eyes in colour white.
Fairly large wedge-shaped nose in dark wood.
Thick protruding rectangular mouth in plain wood, highlighted with a russet pigment on the leading edge and a rectangle russet below (as lip liner).
Traditionally, the Kifwebe mask is very symbolic in the Bantu culture of central Africa.
Its striking colours and carving symbolise the battle between good and evil.
Female Kifwebe masks represent femininity, the continuation of life and a good omen.
These masks were used for wedding ceremonies, reproduction rituals and other such occasions.
This large mask has a dramatic and expressive colourful face.
The overall shape is broad at the crown (eyes level upwards) and slightly tapered from the nose downwards.
Decorated with broad curved bands of indented carving in plain wood, russet red, indigo blue colour and white.
Large bulging coffee bean shaped eyes in colour white.
Fairly large wedge-shaped nose in dark wood.
Thick protruding rectangular mouth in plain wood, highlighted with a russet pigment on the leading edge and a rectangle russet below (as lip liner).
It’s gentle yet striking features and rounded forehead showing the absence of a ‘Tall Crest’, indicates this is a Female Kifwebe mask.
Can be mounted on a stand or hung on a wall.
Very good antique condition.
Shows some signs consistent with age.
Please see all images.
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Dimensions:Height: 13.78 in (35 cm)Width: 7.88 in (20 cm)Depth: 6.7 in (17 cm)
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Style:Tribal(Of the Period)
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Materials and Techniques:WoodCarved
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Place of Origin:Congo
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Period:Early 20th Century
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Date of Manufacture:circa 1920s
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Condition:GoodWear consistent with age and use.
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Seller Location:Torquay, GB
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Reference Number:Seller: AA12032301SWMSeller: LU7879233273872
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