Chokwe Mwana Pwo mask
€345.00
This Chokwe Mwana Pwo female mask represents one of the most refined and celebrated expressions of Chokwe art from Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Depicting the idealized female figure according to Chokwe aesthetic and social values, this example is distinguished by its particularly accomplished carving.
The face displays harmonious and perfectly balanced features: half-closed eyes framed by delicately modeled eyelids, a finely carved nose, elegantly shaped lips, and subtle scarification motifs engraved across the forehead, enhancing the dignity and refinement of the expression.
The monumental coiffure, composed of large geometric forms enriched with carefully incised patterns, gives the mask a commanding presence and elegant verticality.
Mwana Pwo masks traditionally embody ideal womanhood, fertility, the transmission of knowledge, and the continuity of lineage. During ceremonial performances, they were animated through dance, where graceful movements extended the beauty and symbolism of the sculpture.
This work perfectly illustrates the mastery of Chokwe artists in the treatment of volume, proportion, and decorative detail. The serenity of the facial features contrasts harmoniously with the architectural strength of the coiffure, creating a composition of remarkable sophistication. Highly sought after by collectors and admired by museums worldwide, the Mwana Pwo mask remains one of the defining masterpieces of classical Central African art.
Shipping fees
02660
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1970
- Size
- 25 cm (36 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Very good
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This Chokwe Mwana Pwo female mask represents one of the most refined and celebrated expressions of Chokwe art from Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Depicting the idealized female figure according to Chokwe aesthetic and social values, this example is distinguished by its particularly accomplished carving.
The face displays harmonious and perfectly balanced features: half-closed eyes framed by delicately modeled eyelids, a finely carved nose, elegantly shaped lips, and subtle scarification motifs engraved across the forehead, enhancing the dignity and refinement of the expression.
The monumental coiffure, composed of large geometric forms enriched with carefully incised patterns, gives the mask a commanding presence and elegant verticality.
Mwana Pwo masks traditionally embody ideal womanhood, fertility, the transmission of knowledge, and the continuity of lineage. During ceremonial performances, they were animated through dance, where graceful movements extended the beauty and symbolism of the sculpture.
This work perfectly illustrates the mastery of Chokwe artists in the treatment of volume, proportion, and decorative detail. The serenity of the facial features contrasts harmoniously with the architectural strength of the coiffure, creating a composition of remarkable sophistication. Highly sought after by collectors and admired by museums worldwide, the Mwana Pwo mask remains one of the defining masterpieces of classical Central African art.