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Unknown Maker
Kifwebe Mask
Mid-20th century

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.

 
Unknown Maker
Luba peoples
Kifwebe Mask
Mid-20th century
wood, pigment, hair
42.0 x 26.0 x 22.0 cm
Gift of Justin and Elisabeth Lang, 1984
M84-088

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