Collected in 1999 (Bukavu _ DRC) lega Mask used in bwami society during circumcision. Made with Wood, Rafia , and pigments , Height : 33x17cm. it’s from Privare Collections Nairobi
This mask was used as part of the cult of the Bwami, Height : 25×15 cm Materials : Wood , Rafia , Pigment Estimated age : Mid 20th Century Provenance : Private Collections
Kakulu ka Mpito was duped by the adulterous Waiyinda or by Mukobania, ‘the divider,’ who caused trouble by calling together people whom he did not know well for a beer party. Height : 27cm Material : Wood, Leather. Provenance: Collected in Congo Bukavu 1985 ,African Heritage , Private Collection Estimated…
Songye panel with Named after the men’s society and its mask, Kifwebe controlled the behavior of women and children and collected and redistributed wealth.
The facial expression of the mask has been interpreted as many different things, one of the facial expressions it has been interpreted as is peacefulness. The reasoning for this is that the oval shape and the warm colours of the mask symbolize peace. The facial expression has also been interpreted…
Bwami Society Mask , Men in Lega culture enter the centuries old Bwami society to learn skills and wisdom for life that are taught to initiates through art. Height : 22x13cm Material : Wood , Pigment , Rafia Provenace : Private Collection Estimated Age : 20th Century
For the Songye, the term kifwebe generically means mask. This designation, kifwebe, was used for the first time in 1905-1906 . The first cults of kifwebe masks began at the turn of the 20th century. this mask became an instrument of social power , color of this mask are symbolic…