Mask (kifwebe)

Both Songye and Luba masking societies employed a dramatic mask called kifwebe, whose linear patterns are said to allude to history, power, and a constellation of other esoteric meanings. The aggressive Songye male type like this example has a sharp crest, protuberant angular features, and red coloring; the female type is round in shape and black in color. The overall incised and whitened striations on both types enhance their sculptural power.