Kifwebe Mask
Label TextAggressive redefinition of the face into bold cubistic features is a trademark of masks that act as agents for the ruling elite. Incised striations completely cover the masks in black and white stripes that alert audiences to a time for impending danger. Such masqueraders are said to “detect that which is hidden,” and enact a form of law enforcement.
Object number2006.97
Photo CreditPhoto: Elizabeth Mann
Credit LineGift of Dr. Oliver E. and Pamela F. Cobb, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum
Dimensions37 (with raffia) x 8 x 10in. (94 x 20.3 x 25.4cm)
MediumWood, raffia, cord
Songye culture, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Object number: 68.34
Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mangbetu culture
20th century
Object number: 79.3
Songye culture, Democratic Republic of the Congo
19th - 20th century
Object number: 81.17.663
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