Lwalwa Nkoki mask
The place of masks in initiation
In traditional African Lwalu or Lwalwa art, four main types of masks are known:
Nkoki or nkaki male mask.
Shifola male mask (also called cifola in various sources)
Mvondo male mask (also called mfondo and nvondo in various sources)
Mushika female mask (also called kashika in various sources)
These masks are worn during festivities, during night performances as well as to celebrate the circumcision of young initiates.
In the past, when men were still sacrificed during initiation, masked dancers were also believed to soothe the souls of victims and enlist their aid as intermediaries between the living and the spirit realm.
In Lwalwa society, in D.R. Congo and Angola, carvers hold a privileged place in society (like community leaders) and are responsible for the initiation and circumcision of young men and boys.
02288
Data sheet
- Size
- 24 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Condition
- Excellent
The place of masks in initiation
In traditional African Lwalu or Lwalwa art, four main types of masks are known:
Nkoki or nkaki male mask.
Shifola male mask (also called cifola in various sources)
Mvondo male mask (also called mfondo and nvondo in various sources)
Mushika female mask (also called kashika in various sources)
These masks are worn during festivities, during night performances as well as to celebrate the circumcision of young initiates.
In the past, when men were still sacrificed during initiation, masked dancers were also believed to soothe the souls of victims and enlist their aid as intermediaries between the living and the spirit realm.
In Lwalwa society, in D.R. Congo and Angola, carvers hold a privileged place in society (like community leaders) and are responsible for the initiation and circumcision of young men and boys.