Chokwe Ngulu mask
€350.00
Striking Chokwe Ngulu zoomorphic mask representing a pig or bush pig. Its powerful sculptural construction immediately stands out: a compact head extends into a long cylindrical snout, framed by two exceptionally large upright ears and narrow almond-shaped eye openings.
The carving relies on bold, highly legible volumes. The projecting muzzle terminates in two deep nostrils, while a raised curved ridge emphasizes the transition between face and snout. The broad triangular ears give the composition much of its dramatic character. Its surface ranges from deep brown to reddish brown, with subtle variations that emphasize the modelling of the wood.
Among the Chokwe, Ngulu belongs to the comparatively uncommon repertoire of animal masks. The Metropolitan Museum specifically identifies the type as a Bush Pig (Ngulu) headdress. In contrast with idealized human characters such as Mwana Pwo, animal masks could evoke a more instinctive, unpredictable and untamed dimension of behaviour and the natural world.
The hollowed interior and series of holes along the perimeter are consistent with its original function as a headdress mask. Comparable documented Ngulu examples were worn high on the head and completed with fibre or textile elements that concealed the performer.
With its elongated snout, monumental ears and remarkably economical design, this Ngulu is an especially expressive example of Chokwe animal imagery.
Custom-made metal display stand included.
02704
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1970
- Size
- 16 cm (24 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Importante portuguese coll. (Belém)
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Vintage
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Striking Chokwe Ngulu zoomorphic mask representing a pig or bush pig. Its powerful sculptural construction immediately stands out: a compact head extends into a long cylindrical snout, framed by two exceptionally large upright ears and narrow almond-shaped eye openings.
The carving relies on bold, highly legible volumes. The projecting muzzle terminates in two deep nostrils, while a raised curved ridge emphasizes the transition between face and snout. The broad triangular ears give the composition much of its dramatic character. Its surface ranges from deep brown to reddish brown, with subtle variations that emphasize the modelling of the wood.
Among the Chokwe, Ngulu belongs to the comparatively uncommon repertoire of animal masks. The Metropolitan Museum specifically identifies the type as a Bush Pig (Ngulu) headdress. In contrast with idealized human characters such as Mwana Pwo, animal masks could evoke a more instinctive, unpredictable and untamed dimension of behaviour and the natural world.
The hollowed interior and series of holes along the perimeter are consistent with its original function as a headdress mask. Comparable documented Ngulu examples were worn high on the head and completed with fibre or textile elements that concealed the performer.
With its elongated snout, monumental ears and remarkably economical design, this Ngulu is an especially expressive example of Chokwe animal imagery.
Custom-made metal display stand included.