Kifwebe Mask
African Art
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Kifwebe Mask
Artwork Details
Artist/Maker
Luba Artist, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date
Twentieth century
Medium
Wood and paint
Accession #
1984.310
Dimensions
17 x 17 inches
Location
Currently Not on View
Description
Both the Luba and Songye people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo use masks that are performed by the Kifwebe association, a men’s organization charged with maintaining law and order. The masks also serve a variety of additional purposes, appearing during initiation ceremonies, for funeral rites, and at secular public performances. Although individual Kifwebe mask styles vary, all are recognizable by the presence of concentric or parallel incised lines painted black, white, and red to accentuate the facial features.