Kwele Buffalo Mask, Gabon

Description of Significance:

Kwele Buffalo masks from Gabon are distinctive ceremonial artifacts primarily associated with the Kwele people and their Bwete (or Bwiti) association, a societal institution responsible for upholding social order within the community. The masks serve a vital role in promoting well-being, peace, and unity, especially during communal ceremonies. Crafted to resemble the buffalo's features, these masks are characterized by their elongated, heart-shaped faces and prominently arched horns, which reinforce the mask’s harmonious, symmetrical appearance.

One unique aspect of Kwele masks is that some were not intended to be worn over the face. Instead, they were often displayed to onlookers in a way that symbolized protection, strength, and the embodiment of positive energy for the community. This presentation allowed the mask’s artistry and symbolism to be appreciated by everyone present. Additionally, many Kwele masks did not have eye slits, which also supports the idea of them being more visual artifacts than practical masks.

Country of Origin:

• Hand carved in  D.R. Congo

Dimensions (inches):

• Depth: 6"
• Width: 8"
• Height: 26"

Sustainable Materials & Display:

• Paint and stain
• Indigenous wood
• Installed wire for easy wall hanging

About Decorative African Art:

Hemingway Gallery only purchases pieces from artists or owners that we approve of historically and aesthetically. These might include artworks that have been newly created and are currently being used in ceremonies. We place high value in these pieces, despite their lack of age and antiquity, regarding them as real even though they are not old. Some are created for use by the people and not made for the tourist trade. Ours are by talented artisans creating fine art that reference historic styles. Newly produced African art is gorgeous and we value these pieces. This includes contemporary aesthetics from the continent that may not necessarily look traditionally ‘African’. Our goal is to represent design in Africa that goes beyond the idea of ‘tribal’ as the styles of emerging artists are ever evolving.

Our Pricing:

Our pricing correlates directly to the asking prices of artists, artisans and art dealers in the various African countries we collect from and the costs of importing their artwork to the U.S. We need to change the idea that artists should be paid pennies for their fine art just because it comes from Africa. Paying a fair price to our artists is our number one priority and our pricing reflects that.

Shipping:

• Subsidized FedEx Ground Shipping: $30
• We ship around the world! Our website is still new and is not yet processing automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the mainland USA (including Hawaii and Alaska).

Further Information:

Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information on this piece.