Object Image

Mask of the Bwadi bwa Kifwebe Society

This female mask was danced for Kifwebe masquerades, which unleash sorcery's menacing power to reinforce the authority of chiefs and elders. Masked male and female dancers are embodiments of supernatural beings from the forest wilderness. Materials and other characteristics of this costume-tree fiber, the horn-like projection and facial striations-suggest a forest antelope's horn and white markings. In contrast to male maskers' fearsome, unrestrained movements, the subdued movements of the female masker express benevolent, mystical power. Female masks activated with sacred white clay express ritual purity, wisdom and fertility.

Purchase: William Rockhill Nelson Trust through the George H. and ...

late 19th century
Wood, pigment, fiber, hide, and shell
50.5 x 23.0 x 17.0 in
92-18
Image and text: The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art, 2023

Where you'll find this

Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Permanent collection