Folklore

Kifwebe mask-costume

From Congo, in the last part of the 1800th century.

This costume was used by the male-dancers in ceremonies and to maintain peace and order among the Songye-people in Congo. In the mask there are several animal symbols, each giving a unique power to the man wearing the costume. Based on the traditional techniques, expression and stories I have transformed it to my own contemporary costume. It still has references to the originally Kifwebe mask-costume, in terms of ex. hand-knitting and lines in the mask.

 

Inspiration: