SONGYE, Southern Kalebwe, Kamana region, Democratic Republic of Congo. Wood, pigments including kaolin. Large female "Kikashi" mask from the "Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe" initiation society, depicting a harmonious human face marked with fine curvilinear striations whose articulation is linked to the movements of the mask dance. The naso-frontal band ends in a triangular nose and the strong prognathic mouth in the shape of a snout questions the animal character of this mask. 47.5x20 cm. (cracks and wear). Literature: "Kifwebe", a century of Songye and Luba masks. François Neyt and Editions 5 Continents.