Chokwe Mask Wood Congo

Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.

Damage/Repair:

The Chokwe people are an ethnic group from Central and Southern Africa, mainly from Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia. They are known for their distinctive art, particularly their masks. Chokwe masks are typically carved from wood and adorned with various materials such as cowrie shells, animal hair, and fiber.

The masks are used in traditional ceremonies and rituals, particularly during initiation ceremonies and funerals. They are also used in performances and other cultural events. Chokwe masks often depict human or animal figures and are intended to represent spirits or ancestral beings.

Some of the common features of Chokwe masks include large, almond-shaped eyes, a prominent forehead, and a protruding mouth. The masks may also have scarification marks, which are a common form of body art among the Chokwe people.

Chokwe masks are highly prized by collectors and art enthusiasts. They are considered to be some of the finest examples of African art, with their intricate designs and attention to detail. Many museums and galleries around the world have collections of Chokwe masks on display.