Kuyu Kebe-Kebe Puppet, Based

Red, yellow and white paint, applied in bold stripes, like a flag for a face.

This kebe-kebe puppet comes from Kuyu carvers of the Republic of Congo, Central Africa, and was made in wood in the 20th century. Kebe-kebe are commonly connected with ritual and masquerade use, mounted on a stick. The face is divided into geometric fields of yellow, red and white, with one eye outlined in black and a red band across the brow. A dark cap covers the head, and a banded neck sits above a worn, pale wooden shaft.

About 18 inches tall. Graphic enough to be mistaken for a banner.