Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Songye peoples, ca. mid-20th century CE. The most well-known masks of the Songye culture are Kifwebe masks worn in connection with the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe secret society. Kifwebe means "mask" in the Songye language. As we see in this example, it is carved in the form of a face that is covered with linear incisions, has a square protruding mouth and a triangular nose set between protruding eyes. This example is masculine given its central crested coiffure. Female examples have a relatively plain coiffure. The size of the crest is what determines the magical power of the mask. This example shows wonderful low and high relief carving and is elaborately painted with red, black, and cream hues. Perforations along the peripheries for attachment Size: 14.75" L x 12" W x 23.75" H (37.5 cm x 30.5 cm x 60.3 cm); 27" H (68.6 cm) on a stand

Provenance: private Alan A. Davis collection, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

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#124875

Several stable age cracks. Losses to areas of the periphery as shown. Normal surface wear with minor pigment loss and scuffs as shown. Overall very good.