African Shields Divided by numerous sub-groups, the Songye people are governed by a high chief, the Yakitange, whose role demands that he obey special laws, such as not drinking in public and not shaking hands with men. The Songye people have local rulers, the Sultani Ya and an influential secret society, the Bwadi Bwa Kifwebe. The most famous mask created by the Songye, the Kifwebe which means 'mask' in the Songye language was traditionally used when the chief of a village either pasted onto the after life or was newly appointed. The Kifwebe figure was formally and ceremonially displayed when a dignitary arrived at the village and during important tribal celebrations. The kifewebe which is extremely closely related to works attributed by the Luba people; typically has a face covered with concise linear grooves, oversized hooded eyelids, a pronounce nose and a protruding mouth The Kifwebe can be masculine if carved with a high central crest or feminine if it displays a flat plain coif such as the one that adorns the center of this shield. Please click photo for enlargement! See other photos below. Sold Please scroll down to Order. When OFFLINE click button to leave a message!   Live chat by LivePerson Dimensions: 22 inches tall x 17 1/2 inches wide x 4 inches deep. Wt: 12 lbs. shipping **For a complete inventory listing please go to the 'Index' section on the Navigation Bar to your right** Item 423a$250.00 Center close viewPlease click photo for enlargement! ProfilePlease click photo for enlargement! BackPlease click photo for enlargement! HandlePlease click photo for enlargement! The WarehousePlease click here for new arrivals. The Curators GalleryPlease click here for exclusive high grade selections.