H x W x D: 27.9 x 19.1 x 7.9 cm (11 x 7 1/2 x 3 1/8 in.)
Type:
Mask
Geography:
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date:
Late 19th-early 20th century
Label Text:
This Songye plaque with kifwebe mask was likely not used as a mask. Like other kifwebe masks, however, the parallel incisions--reminiscent of the maze that the Bukishi initiates must negotiate--projecting mouth and contrasting black and white pigments emphasize its volume and geometric features. Named after the men's society and its mask, Kifwebe controlled the behavior of women and children and collected and redistributed wealth. Kifwebe masks came in both male and female form, with the male forms typically being more exaggerated and larger in size. The most important identifying feature of a kifwebe mask is the crest--male masks exhibit a crest that juts out above the head, whereas female masks always exhibit a flat crest. The kifwebe mask on this plaque is likely female, though the shovel-shaped plaque it rests on is curious and complicates analysis. Like a mask, it could have been used in dance, but perhaps as a wand rather than a face covering.
Description:
Small panel with a flat projecting handle and a kifwebe mask in high detached relief. The mask has curving incised parallel lines and white and black pigment.
Provenance:
Albert Mons, Liege, Belgium before 1960
Eliot Elisofon, New York, 1960-1973
Content Statement:
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