African Tribal Art - Songye Mask

Ex-Belgian collection.

The term Kifwebe refers to the mask, the society of masks, and the wearer of the mask who belongs to the secret male society bwadi bwa kifwebe, responsible for ensuring social order. The male mask (kilume) is generally characterized by a high crest, while the female (kikashi) has a lower crest, or even no crest. Finally, the largest mask embodies power (kia ndoshi). In the 16th century, the Songyes left the Shaba region to settle on the left bank of the Lualaba, in the Katanga and Kasai regions. Their society is organized according to a patriarchal model and their history is closely linked to that of the Luba, with whom they share common ancestors. Divination, very present in their culture, was used to identify sorcerers and to explain the causes of misfortunes that struck individuals. The masked ceremonies, worn by male masks, were an opportunity to carry out punitive expeditions and maintain social order. As for the female masks, reputed to have divinatory powers, their dances invoked benevolent spirits.

Piece accompanied by its certificate of authenticity.

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