Click Here for New Arrivals! The Luba empire founded in 1585, was the result of the unification of a large number of smaller chiefdoms. At its' peak about 1 million people were paying tribute to the Luba king. At the end of the 19th century the empire collapsed at the hands of the Belgian colonials. A secret society “Bambudye,” kept the memory of the once great and powerful Luba empire alive. Kifwebe masks, also attributed to the BaSongye people, were used in a Luba dance called “Makaye a Kifwebe” which means “dance of the mask.” The classic Kifwebe mask is the embodiment of unearthly spiritual powers. The Kifwebe was used when the chief of a village either died or was newly appointed or when an important dignitary arrived at the village. Kifwebe masks vary greatly but in general are characterized by concise linear patterns. Pigmentation is often found, as in this case, where an attractive red, green and tan combination was chosen. This important historical ceremonial device has been centrally incorporated onto the front of the shield. New shields of this ilk are used solely for entertainment purposes in Africa. They bring about tribal recognition and individual pride and pay homage to age old tribal tradition. Crafted from one very solid piece of hard wood the shield displays an extreme carving talent in the form of an intricate and precise linear Luba pattern on the front and attractive sculpting on the back. Although new, this selection is undeniably attractive, gives praise to tradition and acclaim to today’s African artists. Please click photo for enlargement! See other photos below. Sold Please scroll down to Order. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message!
Dimensions: 16 x 16 inch diameter. Wt: 12 lbs. shipping **For a complete inventory listing please go to the 'Index' section on the Navigation Bar to your right** |
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