Always worn by higher-rank initiates in Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and even Angola, this type of African mask embodying a female ancestor offers numerous decorative accessories. A basketwork structure, extended by a raffia net, supports a hairstyle made up of textile ribbons and braids, decorated with pearls and nuts. Earrings adorn the ears. Red brown patina. Height on base: 34 cm. The African Chokwe pwo masks, among the numerous akishi masks (sing: mukishi, indicating power) of African Chokwe art, embody an ideal of beauty, Mwana Pwo, or the Pwo woman and appear today during festive ceremonies. The pwo are believed to bring fertility and prosperity to the community. The characteristic patterns present on the forehead, and sometimes on the cheekbones, are part of the Chokwe aesthetic canons but also served as public markers of ethnic identity. The recurring cruciform frontal motif would also have a cosmogonic meaning. (source: Chokwe, B. Wastiau)
Sold Sold for 280.00 € This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity
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