Kiphoko (Sword User) Mask
Pende initiations require the symbolic eating of a bite of food off the nose of this mask. An accompanying vow is spoken to keep the sacred teachings of the initiate intact. Kiphoko is a formidable masquerader who holds swords and is linked to the chief of the community. Empowered to heal illness, solve problems with hunting, and handle other ailments, Kiphoko has many capacities.
Wood and pigment
10 7/8 x 10 3/4 x 12 13/16 in. (27.7 x 27.3 x 32.5 cm)
Gift of Katherine White and the Boeing Company
81.17.888
Provenance: [Galerie Concorde, Los Angeles, California]; purchased from gallery by Katherine White (1929-1980), Seattle, Washington, 1977; bequeathed to Seattle Art Museum, Seattle, Washington, 1981
