Antique African Songye Female Kifwebe Wall Mask With Expressive Face Large Sized
£1,550.00
Worldwide Delivery
Large sized Songye Female Kifwebe mask from The Congo circa 1920s
Traditionally, the Kifwebe mask is very symbolic in the Bantu culture of central Africa.
Its striking colours and carvings symbolise the battle between good and evil.
Female Kifwebe masks represent femininity, the continuation of life and a good omen.
These masks were used for reproduction rituals, wedding ceremonies and other such religious occasions.
Only 1 left in stock
Product Details
This large mask has a dramatic and expressive colourful face.
The overall shape is broad at the crown (eyes level upwards) and slightly tapered from the nose downwards.
Decorated with broad curved bands of indented carving in plain wood, russet red, indigo blue and white.
Large bulging coffee bean shaped eyes in colour white.
Fairly large wedge-shaped nose in dark wood.
Thick protruding rectangular mouth in plain wood, highlighted with a russet pigment on the leading edge and a rectangle russet below (as lip liner).
It's gentle yet striking features, and rounded forehead showing the absence of a 'Tall Crest', indicates this is a Female Kifwebe mask.
Can be wall mounted or hung ona stand as shown in photos.
Dimensions
35cm high x 20cm wide x 17cm deep.
Product Condition
Very good antique condition.
Shows some signs consistent with age.
Please see all images.
