Chokwe Mwana Ngulu pig mask
Mukanda in African art
Among the Chokwe, there is the African mask Mwana Ngulu representing a pig.
Other masks also exist, the best known of which are those of "beautiful women", the Pwo, as well as the male Cihongo masks that can be recognized by their chins on the shelf.
These last figures of human faces and illustrate respectable behavior. On the contrary, zoomorphic masks aim to parody behaviors at odds with social conventions. This type of Ngulu mask fits into the festivities associated with Mukanda, a rite of passage to adulthood in Chokwé society. The Mukanda takes place in a village that welcomes boys.
Masked Makishi dancers then make their appearance, representing the ancestors who will guide and assist the boys during the transition to adulthood. The Makishi go from village to village to announce that the Mukanda is coming. Various rituals and festivities take place before circumcision is finally performed.
In attached photo, a photo belonging to the Dundo Museum showing a wearer of the Mwana Ngulu mask having undoubtedly inspired the one we are proposing, with his traditional costume.
01951
Data sheet
- Size
- 25 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Condition
- Excellent
Mukanda in African art
Among the Chokwe, there is the African mask Mwana Ngulu representing a pig.
Other masks also exist, the best known of which are those of "beautiful women", the Pwo, as well as the male Cihongo masks that can be recognized by their chins on the shelf.
These last figures of human faces and illustrate respectable behavior. On the contrary, zoomorphic masks aim to parody behaviors at odds with social conventions. This type of Ngulu mask fits into the festivities associated with Mukanda, a rite of passage to adulthood in Chokwé society. The Mukanda takes place in a village that welcomes boys.
Masked Makishi dancers then make their appearance, representing the ancestors who will guide and assist the boys during the transition to adulthood. The Makishi go from village to village to announce that the Mukanda is coming. Various rituals and festivities take place before circumcision is finally performed.
In attached photo, a photo belonging to the Dundo Museum showing a wearer of the Mwana Ngulu mask having undoubtedly inspired the one we are proposing, with his traditional costume.