Kifwebe Mask – Wood – Songye – Congo DRC

Description

Beautiful Kifwebe mask from the SONGYE tribe of D.R. Congo. They are called Kifwebe, which means `mask`in the Songye language. Typically, it has a face covered with linear incisions, a square protruding mouth and a linear nose set between globular pierced eyes. This is a male mask with crest.

During initiation, circumcision or funeral ceremonies, a dancer will wear the mask and his body will be covered with straw. The dancer who wears the female mask displays more gentle and controlled movements and is assumed to be associated with reproduction ceremonies.
Good condition with traces of wear and tear.

Provenance: former private German collection.

Object:

Kifwebe Mask

Ethnic group:

Songye

Country:

DR Congo

Material:

Wood

Period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

No

Dimensions:

45x20x18 cm

Weight:

900 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $170.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $45.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from Netherlands

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

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20%

Kifwebe Mask – Wood – Songye – Congo DRC

Lot 0187

Estimate $200-$250May 20, 2026, 12:00 PM EDT

Starting Price

Secure

$130

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