In the kifwebe masking tradition of the Luba peoples, masks are danced in male-female couples. The multicoloured pigmentation, small mouth, and scarification marks under the eyes of this piece indicate that it likely represents a female. Although this mask has the strong symmetry of a human face, the combination of protruding features and incised geometric lines creates an abstract effect.

Luba kifwebe masks are danced at the funerals of important people and at festivities to mark a person’s achievement of a political title. They also have historical links to the abolishment of sorcery.