Kifwebe (Mask)
Songye
1 of 2
Object Label
The kifwebe masquerade is a genre shared by the Luba and Songye, indicative of the interaction that has occurred between the two societies. Kifwebe masks represent either male or female beings. Both mask types are characterized by angular and thrusting forms, and in both cases the entire face is covered in patterns of geometric grooves that are uniquely characteristic of these masks. Female masks, such as this one, are distinguished by the predominant use of white clay and the rounded form of the head crest.
Caption
Songye. Kifwebe (Mask), late 19th or early 20th century. Wood, pigment, 12 x 7 1/8 x 6 1/8 in. (30.5 x 18.1 x 15.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Collection of Beatrice Riese, 2011.4.2. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Culture
Title
Kifwebe (Mask)
Date
late 19th or early 20th century
Geography
Place made: Tanganyika Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Medium
Wood, pigment
Classification
Dimensions
12 x 7 1/8 x 6 1/8 in. (30.5 x 18.1 x 15.6 cm)
Credit Line
Collection of Beatrice Riese
Accession Number
2011.4.2
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