Chokwe Kalelwa mask
Mukanda masks in African art
Among the Chokwe peoples and related groups, there is a great diversity of masks representing specific characters (the deceased called afu) like a play. While some have distinctive features, it is not easy to identify them outside of their dance context. They are grouped together under the generic term akishi.
Akishi are seen as protective ancestors appearing during the period of male Mukanda initiation.
This African mask is composed of a facial part carved in wood whose patina has been reddened with pigment and palm oil. The carving is fine and detailed, especially the sharp teeth. A small restoration is present on the right lateral face behind the ear but the general condition is excellent. The upper part is composed of a structure on which a fabric has been stretched and decorated with geometric patterns with very specific meanings.
This kalelwa mask is the protective character of the mukanda with an aggressive attitude during his outings. The dancer is armed with a machete or a branch and in priority the initiated men and women around the village in order to respect and protect the initiation camp.
01802
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1950
- Size
- +/- 43 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal Art Collection Luxembourg
- Condition
- Vintage
You might also like
Mukanda masks in African art
Among the Chokwe peoples and related groups, there is a great diversity of masks representing specific characters (the deceased called afu) like a play. While some have distinctive features, it is not easy to identify them outside of their dance context. They are grouped together under the generic term akishi.
Akishi are seen as protective ancestors appearing during the period of male Mukanda initiation.
This African mask is composed of a facial part carved in wood whose patina has been reddened with pigment and palm oil. The carving is fine and detailed, especially the sharp teeth. A small restoration is present on the right lateral face behind the ear but the general condition is excellent. The upper part is composed of a structure on which a fabric has been stretched and decorated with geometric patterns with very specific meanings.
This kalelwa mask is the protective character of the mukanda with an aggressive attitude during his outings. The dancer is armed with a machete or a branch and in priority the initiated men and women around the village in order to respect and protect the initiation camp.