Chokwe Mask Mwana Pwo with Headdress Custom Stand
Width: 7.0
Depth: 7.5
Description
This exquisite Chokwe Mask is a one-of-a-kind piece of African art. The intricate beadwork and geometric engravings create a visual masterpiece that will bring a touch of elegance and culture to any space. Comes with custom metal stand.
The Chokwe people, prominent in Central and Southern Africa, are renowned for their unique artistry, particularly their wooden masks adorned with cowrie shells, animal hair, and fibers. These masks play pivotal roles in ceremonies like initiations and funerals, embodying spirits or ancestral beings. Typically featuring large eyes, a prominent forehead, and scarification marks, these masks may depict human or animal figures. Highly sought after by collectors, Chokwe masks are considered prime examples of African art for their intricate designs and meticulous craftsmanship. Among their dances, the Pwo mask represents a revered Chokwe ancestor, symbolizing mature femininity and spirituality, while bird masks signify positive forces protecting the community, fostering fertility and prosperity. These finely carved masks, worn on the face and often accompanied by woven netting costumes, serve as conduits for ceremonial dances, allowing the wearer to see through their eyes or nose holes.
137948
Approximate Age: Early 20th Century
People: Chokwe
Country of Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Other Dimensions: 15.5 Inch on stand
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.