Songye. Mask (Kifwebe), late 19th or early 20th century. Wood, pigment, 12 x 7 1/8 x 6 1/8 in. (30.5 x 18.1 x 15.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Collection of Beatrice Riese, 2011.4.2. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 2011.4.2_threequarter_SL1_edited.jpg)
Songye. Mask (Kifwebe), late 19th or early 20th century. Wood, pigment, 12 x 7 1/8 x 6 1/8 in. (30.5 x 18.1 x 15.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Collection of Beatrice Riese, 2011.4.2. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 2011.4.2.jpg)
Mask (Kifwebe)
Arts of Africa
The kifwebe masquerade is a genre shared by the Luba and Songye, indicative of the interaction that has occurred between the two societies. Kifwebe masks represent either male or female beings. Both mask types are characterized by angular and thrusting forms, and in both cases the entire face is covered in patterns of geometric grooves that are uniquely characteristic of these masks. Female masks, such as this one, are distinguished by the predominant use of white clay and the rounded form of the head crest.
CULTURE
Songye
MEDIUM
Wood, pigment
DATES
late 19th or early 20th century
DIMENSIONS
12 x 7 1/8 x 6 1/8 in. (30.5 x 18.1 x 15.6 cm) (show scale)
COLLECTIONS
Arts of Africa
ACCESSION NUMBER
2011.4.2
CREDIT LINE
Collection of Beatrice Riese
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION
The object is a female mask with projecting mouth, triangular nose, pierced eyes, overall concentric linear carving, and polychrome pigment.
Condition is excellent. Two small holes made in back at a previous time for suspending wire through the mask's widest point. Separate mount.
EXHIBITIONS
MUSEUM LOCATION
This item is not on view
CAPTION
Songye. Mask (Kifwebe), late 19th or early 20th century. Wood, pigment, 12 x 7 1/8 x 6 1/8 in. (30.5 x 18.1 x 15.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Collection of Beatrice Riese, 2011.4.2. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 2011.4.2_threequarter_SL1_edited.jpg)
IMAGE
2011.4.2_threequarter_SL1_edited.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph
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RIGHTS STATEMENT
Creative Commons-BY
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