Lot 193 - AFRICAN CHOKWE PEOPLE MWANA PWO MASK

An African Mwana Pwo mask, a celebrated masterpiece of tribal art from the Chokwe people of Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia. Mwana Pwo translates to young woman. The mask represents a deified female ancestor and serves as an idealized portrait of Chokwe feminine beauty and fertility. The cross-like symbol on the forehead is a traditional tattoo or scarification mark known as chingelyengelye. The marks under the eyes often represent tears, symbolizing the mother's pain when her son is initiated into manhood. Key aesthetic traits include almond-shaped eyes, a slender nose, and an open mouth often showing pointed, filed teeth, a historical mark of high status and beauty among Chokwe women. The mask is adorned with a complex, braided headdress made of raffia fibers or woven cords, mimicking traditional Chokwe hairstyles. Despite representing a woman, these masks are worn exclusively by male dancers. Dressed in tight-fitting net costumes with false breasts, the performers mimic the graceful, fluid movements of women to teach the community about feminine virtues during Mukanda rites and other major festivals. African Masks, Figurines, Ethnic And Tribal Art Collectibles.

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