Songye Kifwebe Mask from Democratic Republic of Congo

A large & fine Songe Kifwebe mask, the grooved pattern on the face of the mask is a common characteristic of a Kifwebe mask from the Songye tribe in the Democratic Republic of Congo in central sub-Saharan Africa. The white paint in the grooves symbolizes peace, light and the purity of the soul. The dark colour symbolizes nature as positive force. The facial elements are associated with animals. The Songye tribe uses this type of mask during ceremonies, and at the funeral processions of important leaders. According to the Songye tribe, when certain individuals of the Kifwebe society wear the mask along with the costume and raffia beard they are believed to gain magical powers that can manipulate evil spirits. Provenance: Acquired from an Australian collection where the family had come from South Africa in the 1960's / Todd Barlin collection.