Round Kifwebe Mask

Origin: Luba Tribe, D.R. Congo
Composition: wood, pigment dyes

Like the Songye, the Luba were familiar with the Kifwebe masquerade tradition, which presumable originated in the border area between the two ethnic groups. Most Luba masks have an elongated form and lack the prominent "comb" running over the center of the head, and bear many similarities with the female Songye "kijwebe" masks. Comparitively rare are round kifwebe masks, whose shape was evidently associated with the moon and to which special rites were devoted. These masks are also thought to be associated with the kanzanzi secret society, which was responsible for warding off sorcery and harmful influences (Ref: Spirits Speak).