Chokwe Mwana Pwo mask
Aesthetics and femininity in African art
African mask of Chokwe origin. The face has been remarkably well sculpted with particular care given to the dentition; pointed teeth being a women's fashion in northern Angola and southern D.R. Congo; as well as balances and symmetry.
The headdress that accompanies the mask is still well attached to it. Indeed, the man who wore this female mask of the mwana pwo (beautiful woman) type was hidden by a headdress and a rope costume, generally lined.
The wearer mimicked, during initiation dances, the elegant gait that young women passing into adulthood had to adopt.
01745
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 35 cm including support
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, rope
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Belgium
- Condition
- Excellent
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Aesthetics and femininity in African art
African mask of Chokwe origin. The face has been remarkably well sculpted with particular care given to the dentition; pointed teeth being a women's fashion in northern Angola and southern D.R. Congo; as well as balances and symmetry.
The headdress that accompanies the mask is still well attached to it. Indeed, the man who wore this female mask of the mwana pwo (beautiful woman) type was hidden by a headdress and a rope costume, generally lined.
The wearer mimicked, during initiation dances, the elegant gait that young women passing into adulthood had to adopt.