For sale here is a STRIKING vintage 1950s 60s handmade carved wood 'Kifwebe' dance face mask by the Luba people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Africa. A wonderful design, and from the estate of a private collector from Tucson who collected it on his travels in Africa sometime in the late 1950s to the early 1960s. Here is a short bit of information from a museum website online:

Face masks known as kifwebe were historically created by sculptors in an area of the Zaire River Basin inhabited by both Songye and Luba communities. Significant departures in the role and formal interpretation of this sculptural genre subsequently developed in each culture. In both instances, Kifwebe masks participated in initiations and played a role in establishing order in society. Round striated Luba kifwebe function within benevolent practices that purify the community of the evil spirits of sorcerers. In performance, this mask was complemented by a costume ensemble comprising woven textiles, animal pelts, and plant fibers, which covered the dancer’s body.

This fine old vintage mask measures 7-3/4" in diameter by about 2-1/2" in depth, and weighs just under a half pound prior to packing. Unmarked, as expected. Has drill holes in several spots along the rim which indicate that this item was made to be worn, not initially for the tourist trade. As noted above the provenance for this item is from a private collection in the Tucson area, and was collected by the previous owner on their travels in Africa in the mid 20th century. Excellent vintage condition overall but with some wear and staining from the original use including small chips along edges as shown - please view the photos, read the description, and ask all questions prior to purchase. I am open to reasonable offers from serious buyers.