SONGYE SHIELD, DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO

Merton D. Simpson, New York

American Private Collection, acquired from the above

Sotheby's, New York, November 15, 2002, lot 77, consigned by the above

Private Collection, acquired at the above auction

Songye shields carved with a representation of a kifwebe mask on the central boss are relatively rare. Combining sculptural quality with an impressive pictorial dimension, these shields suggest a striking sense of modernity to Western eyes. Playing on the repetition of lines and the alternation of different pigments and motifs, the rhythm and graphic dynamism of this shield is accentuated by the tight curves of the projecting kifwebe masks.