Vintage African SONGYE Tribe Kifwebe Ritual Carved Face Mask- DR Congo

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Vintage African SONGYE Tribe Kifwebe Ritual Carved Face Mask- DR Congo:
$95.00

Up for sale is thisVintage African SONGYE Tribe Kifwebe Ritual Carved Face MaskIn the Songye language, a mask is akifwebe: this term has been given to masks representing spirits and characterized by striations. Depending on the region, it may be dark with white strips, or the reverse. Thekifwebemasks embodied supernatural forces. Thekifwebesociety used them to ward off disaster or any threat.The masks, supplemented by a woven costume and a long beard of raffia bast, dance at various ceremonies. They are worn by men who act as police at the behest of a ruler, or to intimidate the enemy. This particular mask is a masculine mask, as it was carved with a central crest. The size of the crest determines the magic power of the mask. Mask, colors, and costume all have symbolic meaning. The dancer who wears the male mask will display aggressive and uncontrolled behavior with the aim of encouraging social conformity, whereas the dancer who wears the female mask display more gentle and controlled movements and is assumed to be associated with reproduction ceremonies. The use of white on the mask symbolizes positive concepts such as purity and peace, the moon and light. The mask had also the capacity to heal by means of the supernatural force it was supposed to incorporate.
*** I have acquired an amazing collection of African masks from an Estate of a long time Collector!I am not an expert but very much enjoy learning as much as I can from the pieces I find and try to pass on as much knowledge as I can learn in the short time I have them.I always appreciate any information anyone may have on the pieces I list !
I am Happy to combine shipping!!
Measurement: 19\" High x 10\" W x 10\" D
Style: AfricanSONGYE Tribe Kifwebe Ritual Carved Face Mask-Material: woodCondition: vintage- cracks splits and chips are common as these pieces have had multiple owners on multiple continents over decades of time.May have some ware due to ageWe do not clean we leave that up to the BuyerPlease see pictures and ask any questions before offerding
If you are not satisfied please contact me before opening a case.I will work with you to resolve it quickly.By opening a case or leaving anything less than a 5 star rating hurts my seller statusand this is how I make a living. Nothing is intentional!
Domestic Shipping cost: $ 29.95International Shipping: Yes, Global ShippingReturn Policy: We accept returns in same condition as sent , Buyer pays shippingShipping Time 1 business dayPayment: Paypal only
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