 Mask 51 14" h $800 |
 Mask 52 16" h $800 |
| Mask 51 14" h $800 |
Mask 52 16" h $800 |
 Mask 53 15" h $800 |
 Mask 54 16" h $600 |
 Mask 55 14" h $800 |
 Mask 56 13" h $400 |
 Mask 57 12.5" h $500 |
 Mask 58 11.5" h $400 |
 Mask 59 14.5" h $800 |
 Mask 60 15" h $600 |
 Mask 61 12" h $400 |
Audaciously shaped and highly symbolic, Songye Kifebwe masks are part of the regalia of the powerful Bukishi society. The power of the masks is directed towards issues of social control, justice and the continuity of the established political hierarchy and the dances in which the masks appear are characterized by otherworldly sounds and lively movements.
Kifebwe initiates learn the various hidden names of each part of the mask such as the nose which may be referred to as "the doors to a furnace". Male and female masks, all worn by men, are distinguished by form and coloration. The male version possesses highly exaggerated features and a prominent crest whereas the female masks (#46 above) are generally white with a low or almost nonexistent crest.
Despite their appearance these Songye masks show no evidence of age or use and were probably made to be sold.
For Songye masks that have been vetted as authentic please GO TO SONGYE MASKS (41-48)
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