Songye Kifwebe Mask

The Danes are an agricultural people living in western Côte d'Ivoire and the hinterland of Liberia. They have a large number of masked figures representing the spirit of the jungle who serve various social, political and religious functions. Although 11 separate mask types can be distinguished according to formal criteria, these types cannot be assigned to specific functions because the meaning of masks has changed over time. The Danes have gained notoriety in the region for their entertainment festivals, which were originally village ceremonies but are now mostly performed for tourists. During these performances, masked performers dance on stilts. Created by the Kran group, the Kaogle mask is distinguished by its arched cheekbones, triangular nose, and broad, prominent forehead and mouth. This mask in particular is different in that its rectangular eyes protrude from the lower layer of the mask. Such eyes are often characteristic of Dan's neighbors, the Kiel tribe. Other features, such as the interplay of emptiness and mass and the sharp forehead stump, are reminiscent of the work of the nearby Bete tribe. Of course, this mask reveals the artistic influence of each tribe on the other. Khao Lak masks are traditionally used to create a festive atmosphere among the audience before the main festival begins. While this mask once attracted many concerned villagers, today it amazes us with its extraordinary beauty.

The atypical features of this Matsuno mask are its tubular eyes and buzzing nose, which form the tip Add a protruding mouth. Parallel ribs run along the surface, emphasizing the rounded volume. Kaolin residue, scratches. These types of African art masks are classified as kifwebe: males (kilume) mostly have high crowns, A woman (kikashi) will have or lack a more modest crest and finally a larger embodiment Power supply (Kia ndoshi). In the 16th century, the Songye people migrated from the Sabah area to settle on the left Bank of the Lualaba River. Their society is organized by patriarchy. Your story is inseparable from it The Luba people, to whom they are related through a common ancestor. Songyes has done an impressive job at this Statues with powerful functions, often used in secret ceremonies, and equipped with items such as Feather, skin and a horn with a magical charge. Alers are in their company, making it possible to discover the sorcerer and illuminate the darkness Unfortunate causes that happen to individuals. Also used by Luba, with long suits and With long beards made of natural fibers, the kifwebe mask acts as a secret police supporting power such as Control individuals through magic. They also appear at the critical stage of enlightenment