SONGYE KIFWEBE FEMALE MASK

Ca. 19th - 20th century AD > A Songye kifwebe mask of elongated form, with a raised central crest, narrow eye openings and a projecting mouth. Fine linear grooves cover the pale face and contrast with darker facial bands.Kifwebe masks belong to Songye masquerade traditions associated with social authority and esoteric knowledge. Female masks are commonly distinguished by more restrained features and pale striation, in contrast to the prominent crests of many male forms. Their full identity emerges through costume, movement and performance. >>Size: 400mm x 240mm; Weight: 655g > Provenance: Private London Collection; Ex. Private UK Collection. >>