Bernard de Grunne, Brussels
Private Collection, New York, acquired from the above

Very good condition overall. Nicks, chips, minor losses, scratches and abrasions throughout consistent with age and use. Few age cracks in places. The mouth broken and glued, as partially visible in the catalogue illustration. Very fine layered patina with encrustation of pigments in places and scattered losses. Has stand.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Dynamic and well-proportioned, stylized yet expressive, the formal boldness of kifwebe masks have made them icons of African art. The iconography of kifwebe masks is highly symbolic and contains numerous references to Songye mythology and cosmology. The deep painted striations recall the metaphysical labyrinth that initiates travel through during their initiation, as well as the rainbow python which is at the center of the Songye creation story. While the masks are connected to manifestations of magical and religious power, they are also linked to earthly functions. As Neyt notes, "the mask societies see themselves as organs of population control and even judiciary and coercive agencies which reinforce the power of the chief and the nobles." (Neyt, La redoutable statuaire d'Afrique centrale songye, Brussels, 2004, p. 362).