Description

The kifwebe mask is a ceremonial object of the Songye and Luba societies (Democratic Republic of Congo). The Songye term kifwebe generically means "mask" and applies to various types of masks characterized by half-closed eyelids, a prominent nose and mouth, and striations on the face. These striations may evoke an animal, perhaps the striped bongo antelope.

Bifwebe (plural of kifwebe) are generally worn in pairs during dances featuring the spirits of the dead, both men and women, supernatural forces, and mysterious beings. These masks, due to the cubist shape of their faces and the graphic nature of their designs, remain shrouded in mystery.