Chokwe Mwana Pwo mask
This african Chokwe Mwana Pwo mask is a good example of masks commissioned from professional carvers to be used in mukanda initia-tions, to bring forth concepts of ideal beauty attributed to women.
Although the character represents a woman it should be noted that all mask performers are male, participating in the initiations as dancers but also as teachers and guardians for the tundanji initiates.
Because men ultimately dance to dramatize the attributes of women through Pwo masquerades, it is imperative that the performers are very good at what they do. A poor performer without skills in imitating female dances could be chased from the village by women, particularly the mothers and sisters of initiates who would be insulted if the dances are not praiseworthy.
02484
Data sheet
- Size
- 23 cm (40 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Vintage
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This african Chokwe Mwana Pwo mask is a good example of masks commissioned from professional carvers to be used in mukanda initia-tions, to bring forth concepts of ideal beauty attributed to women.
Although the character represents a woman it should be noted that all mask performers are male, participating in the initiations as dancers but also as teachers and guardians for the tundanji initiates.
Because men ultimately dance to dramatize the attributes of women through Pwo masquerades, it is imperative that the performers are very good at what they do. A poor performer without skills in imitating female dances could be chased from the village by women, particularly the mothers and sisters of initiates who would be insulted if the dances are not praiseworthy.