© Michael C. Carlos Museum, Emory University

ClassificationsAfrican Art

Mask with Fiber Costume, Kifwebe

Place CreatedDemocratic Republic of the Congo, Africa

CultureLuba

Datelate 19th-mid 20th Century

MediumWood, pigment, fiber

Credit LineEx coll. William S. Arnett

Dimensions57 1/4 x 14 1/2 x 9 in. (145.4 x 36.8 x 22.9 cm)

Object number1994.004.106

Label TextKifwebe literally means "chases death away." Masks are danced in pairs at the death of a chief or when someone assumes an important political title, thus marking occasions of social transition and transformation. Kifwebe masks originated with the neighboring Songye in southeastern Congo (see for example 2003.73.1), and Luba Kifwebe masks are strongly influenced by them. Associations of Luba and Hemba dancers are credited with the spread of this popular mask type. The dancer's costume is made of fibrous material and animal skins.

The crest and color of this mask identify it as female. The female Kifwebe symbolizes continuity and consistency, expressed through the whiteness of the mask. Whiteness is also used as a concealment that veils the underlying magical potential of sorcery and witchcraft, which are signaled by touches of red and black. Four holes in the top of the mask may indicate the former addition of a horn, feathers, or other magical substances.
Exhibition HistoryMCCM Permanent Collection Installation, Rotation 3, September 26, 1998 - Spring 2003

ProvenanceEx coll. William S. Arnett (1939-2020), Atlanta, Georgia.

Status

Not on view

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