Songye Kifwebe Female Mask

wood, pigments and fibre, typically painted in white

Measurements:

height 35 cm

Provenance:

Purchased from Gert Chesi, Switzerland, c. 1990, The Estate of Ray Hughes

Reference:

The Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe is the most important association in the east of the Songye region. Kifwebe masks are divided between male and female masks. Male masks are worn during rites of passage. Female masks appear on the occasion of a chief’s death or investiture and during lunar rites. This iconic type of African artistry has inspired Western artists, like Alexander Calder and Jean-Michel Basquiat

• EStimate $5,000 - $7,000
• sold $10,200 Incl BP