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Chokwe, "Mwana Pwo" Mask
Tribe: Chokwe (Bachokwe, Bajokwe)
Region: Angola and southern part of Democratic Republic
of the Congo
Size: 13"
Weight: 1lbs 11oz
Material: wood, fabric
Three types of masks are most often used by the Chokwe tribe: initiation, sacred
and dance masks. The quot;Mwana pwo" masks are dance masks and are mainly
worn in the "makishi" dances, that take place at the end of
initiation ceremony. Sometimes they are also used at ceremonies to bring
prosperity to the village. Usually they are danced together with male
masks called the "Cihongo" ("Tchihongo"), which means a
"spirit of wealth". Both masks are worn and danced by men. The
dancer wearing the "Mwana pwo" mask is dressed in knitted costume
and has wooden breasts attached to his chest.
This mask impersonates the ideal women - female ancestor who encourages fertility.
Beautiful, smiling face of a young girl has long, slit eyes and large,
stylised eye sockets. Carved hairstyle is finished off with fabric hair
decorated with wooden beads.
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