Rare masque Janus - Songye-Tempa - DR Congo

The Songye-Tempa of Sankuru, in the DRC, are known for their powerful kifwebe masks used by the initiation societies Bwadi bwa Kifwebe. These works, with deep striations and expressive shapes, were used during rites of power, initiation, and social control. The rare Janus masks, double-faced, symbolize the duality between the visible and invisible worlds, protection and threat, life and ancestors. They accompanied ritual dances, secret ceremonies and spiritual manifestations intended to impress and transmit the authority of the initiates.

Presentation of our expert house

Based in Belgium, our expert house and sales firm specializes in African and ethnographic art. A reference seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with an almost 100% satisfaction rate.

We regularly assist with liquidations, successions and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent and accessible, with sales often offered without reserve prices.

Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.

Shipping guaranteed within 24 hours, with careful packaging, insurance and tracking.
Contact 7 days a week: we remain available for any questions or requests for additional information.