TS_Art of Africa_4C.qxp 10/17/2011 3:53 PM Page 231
Kifwebemask (Songye).
Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Wood, polychromia, height: 45 cm.
Aura Collection.Female mask. The white colour symbolises pureness, peace, and
beauty. Associated with the moon, manioc flour, milk, and
sperm, she ensures the continuity of procreation when used by
beneficent spirits. The nose, painted black, evokes the detection
of what is hidden. The white mask dances slowly and in a
controled way.