{"product_id":"masque-kifwebe","title":"Kifwebe Mask","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMale Kifwebe mask carved by the Songye ethnic group, adorned with polychrome stripes and accompanied by its ritual raffia headdress. An authentic piece steeped in history and symbolic power.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis Kifwebe mask (literally \"mask\" in the Songye language) is a remarkable testament to the ritual art of Central Africa. Originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Katanga region, it belongs to the tradition of the Bwadi bwa Kifwebe secret society, guardian of spiritual balance within Songye communities.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe piece displays the classic characteristics of the male mask (kilume): a large protruding vertical crest, bulging eyes highlighted with white arcs, and a face covered with geometric polychrome chevron stripes. The colors – red, dark blue, white, and brown – are deployed in parallel lines and characteristic V-shaped patterns. The chin features an X-shaped motif typical of the male style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe natural raffia headdress, mixed with black fibers, is still well-preserved and attests to the ceremonial use of the object. This type of mask was worn during ritual dances related to funerals, initiations, and healing ceremonies. Its post-1930 style (high crest and wide stripes) makes it a representative example of the baroque period of Kifwebe sculpture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe overall condition is good. The usage patina and some slight wear of the pigments attest to the authenticity and history of the piece. A collectible item with a strong cultural significance, ideal for an admirer of tribal art or an experienced collector.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carved wood, raffia fibers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Songye ethnic group, Democratic Republic of Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Good — authentic usage patina\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eUnique piece\u003c\/strong\u003e — 1 available\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\u003cli\u003e\n\n\u003cstrong\u003eOn-site pickup only\u003c\/strong\u003e — cash payment upon collection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\n\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Lena - Dana","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":60285768925518,"sku":"ART-011","price":380.0,"currency_code":"CHF","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1060\/6506\/8366\/files\/IMG_1289_2b466881-ca48-4fb5-b145-e2f05070f150.jpg?v=1785678007","url":"https:\/\/lena-dana.ch\/en\/products\/masque-kifwebe","provider":"Lena - Dana","version":"1.0","type":"link"}