Kwele Style Mask, D.R. Congo | SKU: M884
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One-of-a-kind piece
Ethically sourced across Africa
Carefully packed, ships from NYC
Family gallery since 1975
Pickup available at Hemingway African Gallery
Usually ready in 1 hour
Kwele Style Mask, D.R. Congo | SKU: M884
Hemingway African Gallery
88 Leonard St.
New York NY 10013
United States
All Masks |
All Decorative Art |
Kwele Mask from the Democratic Republic of the Congo Description of Significance
Kwele masks come from the Kwele people of Gabon, the Republic of Congo, and Cameroon, and they hold deep spiritual meaning. These masks, with their elegant blend of human and antelope features, were used in Bwete rituals to bring protection, harmony, and a connection to the spirit world. Unlike most African masks made for dance, Kwele masks were displayed during ceremonies rather than worn, acting as a bridge between people and the unseen forces of the forest. Their heart-shaped faces, gentle almond eyes, and sweeping horns symbolize strength and guidance. Traditionally carved from lightweight wood and painted with white kaolin, they were believed to channel ancestral wisdom. The modern mask described here, sculpted in the Democratic Republic of Congo, beautifully reflects the Kwele artistic tradition, though its role is more decorative than spiritual.
Country of Origin
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Hand carved in D.R. Congo
Dimensions (inches)
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Depth: 6"
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Width: 8"
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Height: 10"
Sustainable Materials
- Natural paint and stain
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Indigenous wood
Display
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Wall Hanging: the mask includes a wire installed on the back for easy wall hanging.
Shipping
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FREE SHIPPING
- Professionally packed.
- Ships from New York City.
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Each shipment includes a declared value, requiring a signature upon delivery for added security.
This is a decorative contemporary piece.
Hemingway Gallery carefully selects pieces from artists and collectors whose work aligns with our historical and aesthetic standards. This includes newly created artworks that are actively used in ceremonies, which we deeply value despite their lack of age or antiquity. We recognize these as authentic expressions of artistic and cultural heritage, rather than mere tourist trade items.
Our collection also features works by skilled artisans who create fine art inspired by historic styles, as well as contemporary African pieces that may not fit traditional perceptions of ‘African’ art. We celebrate the evolving aesthetics of the continent, striving to showcase design that moves beyond the conventional ‘tribal’ label, reflecting the innovation and creativity of emerging artists.
Our pricing reflects the asking prices set by the artists, artisans, and art dealers in the African countries where we collect, as well as the real costs of responsibly importing their work to the United States. We are committed to challenging the outdated notion that fine art from Africa should be undervalued. Paying artists fairly is our highest priority, and our pricing is structured to honor their skill, labor, and cultural contribution.
We ship around the world! Our website cannot process automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the continental U.S.A., (including Hawaii and Alaska).
Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information about this specific piece.
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