Traditional Songye Large Kifwebe Male Mask. Decorated with natural earth pigments: red, black and white. Made by the Songye ethnic group from the Democratic Republic of Congo. An interesting Songye Kifwebe mask with huge crest and striations. This s a male mask used by members of the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe Secret society. "Kifwebe" means "Mask" in the Songye language. The face generally is covered with linear incisions which are sometimes pigmented, the mouth is most often square and protruding. If it has a central crest, it is masculine; if not, feminine. The size of the crest determines the magical power of the mask. Such masks are worn during initiation, circumcision, or funeral ceremonies.Measures:....21" In. High....75" In. Wide....7" In. Deep.

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