Kifwebe Mask (Male)
Tribe: Songye
Country: Democratic Republic of Congo
Material: Wood, Twine
Size:
These Kifwebe masks are worm in connection with the bwadi bwa kifwebe secret society. In the Songye langue, "kifwebe" means "mask". The femanine of this mask displays a plain coiffure, while the male version has a crest coiffure, that size of which dictates the power of the mask.
During a celebration or dance, the masquerader will wear a mask, while his body is covered with straw. The dancer wearing the male mask will display aggressive and uncontrolled behavior with the aim of encouraging social conformity, whereas the dancer who wears the female mask displays more gentle and controlled movementsand is believe to be associated with the reproduction ceremonies.
The striated masks, or kifwebe, are used as agents of a tradition and figures of authority to exercise social and political control through practices of evil magic and witchcraft by the members of the bwadi bwa kifwebe society. It is believed that that white stood for purity and peace.
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