Description: The Kwele masks of Gabon are used during initiation ceremonies and or at the end of a mourning period. The masks represent the spirits of the forest. The faces of the masks are normally painted with white kaolin, the white represents the spirit world (peace and tranquility. The Kwele protect themselves against the power of witchcraft with the 'beete' ritual. The 'beete' is a ritual that involves purification by the spirits who are represented in the form of 'ekuk' masks. 'Ekuk' means the 'spirits of the forest' and the 'children of the beete'. Kwele masks represent the antelope whose flesh was eaten at the end of the 'beete' ritual. Kwele masks have two large horns which sometimes encircle and frame the face. Areas of the face are often painted with white kaolin clay, the color of the spirits. Kwele 'ekuk' masks are beautifully stylized with shaped eyes and a small or non-existent mouth. The dimension of the mask is 15" X 7" X 5" Inches. Msk is being sold with the display stand and if you do not want the display stand, let us know when you place the order.
Price: 250 USD
Location: Rockville, Maryland
End Time: 2024-02-18T23:31:04.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
Restocking Fee: No
Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money back or replacement (buyer's choice)
Provenance: Collected
Country/Region of Manufacture: Gabon
Culture: African
Handmade: Yes
