Basongye/Songye Tribe Mask

Basongye/Songye Tribe Mask – These Songye masks made by the Songye tribe from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, are called Kifwebe masks. They are carved from wood and symbolize supernatural powers. Men from the Kifwebe society wear them during ceremonies like initiation rituals to protect against danger or other threats.

About the Tribe

Songye or Basongye, are a Bantu ethnic group found in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's south-eastern region on the banks of the Lualaba River. The Songye are divided into numerous sub-groups and ruled by a central chief, the Yakitenge. They are well-known for their visual arts, particularly expressive masks for the Kifwebe secret society.

Dimensions: H:13.0" W:7.5" L:5.5" Weight: 0.9 lbs.