Ritual face mask

Title: Ritual Face Mask
Type: Wooden Secret Society Mask
Material: Wood, natural pigments, applied metal nails
Cultural Attribution: Songye
Geographical Area: Democratic Republic of the Congo (southeastern region)
Dimensions: h. 28 x 20 x 14 cm
Function/Use: Used in the dances of the Bwadi bwa Kifwebe secret societies, for protection, healing, social control, and ritual celebration. Female masks in particular were used in initiation contexts and peaceful ceremonies, unlike the male versions, which emphasized authority and coercive power.
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