Tribal Dance Shield, Songye Basongye Bayembe Kifwebe. DR Congo. Wood, 24\"H
![Tribal Dance Shield, Songye Basongye Bayembe Kifwebe. DR Congo. Wood, 24\](img-large/g/qWsAAOSwAQFTxg2v/s-l1600/Tribal-Dance-Shield-Songye-Basongye-Bayembe-Kifweb.jpg "Tribal Dance Shield, Songye Basongye Bayembe Kifwebe. DR Congo. Wood, 24\")
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Tribal Dance Shield, Songye Basongye Bayembe Kifwebe. DR Congo. Wood, 24\"H:
$275.00
Appointed Songye men and women wear a mask, or kifwebe, to maintain social order and during secret rituals. The masksare believed to embody supernatural forces and are characterized by grooves or striations. Color, shape, size and design patterns determine whether the mask is worn by a male or female. A kifwebe is often carved into a shield as a single piece of wood, including the handle, and used not only as a defense weapon but in ritual dances. Dimensions (inches): 24h x 17w x 8d. Weight: 7lbs.This curved shield was carved and grooved with contrasting geometric patterns. Aside from minor surface wear it\'s in excellent condition.NOTE:Much of tribal art and artifacts has been exploited, forged, faked, orotherwise misrepresented. No claims are made here regarding ethnicauthenticity, age, ritual use, originality, rarity, patina, or provenance.Serious collectors may opt for private purchases through reputable dealers andpay for such documentable reassurances. The pieces offered here are from myprivate collection over 40-plus years. I valued them based onworkmanship/craftsmanship, cultural interest, emotional appeal, educationalpotential, and decorative appeal.
Tribal Dance Shield, Songye Basongye Bayembe Kifwebe. DR Congo. Wood, 24\"H:
$275.00