Carved Wooden Sculpture in Style of Songye Kifwebe Mask

Item Details

A carved wooden sculpture in the style of a Songye kifwebe mask. The pursed face features grooved vertical lines and a sagittal crest. Behind the face is a carved wooden plaque with similar incised lines. Unmarked.

The Songye are a Bantu ethnic group living in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Kifwebe masks are worn by men and can vary greatly in both appearance and use. Often, they are used in initiations, celebrating seasonal events tied to moon cycles and food production, and more.

Condition

- extensive scuffing to the wood, all over; strong odor to piece.

Dimensions

Item #

17NYC999-308