Face Mask (Mwana Pwo)
Artist/Maker
Chokwe people
(Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola and Zambia)
Datenot dated
Mediumwood and stain
DimensionsOverall: 10 1/4 x 5 7/8 x 2 7/8 in. (26 x 14.9 x 7.3 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Terms
Object number2012.2.34
DescriptionThis mask may be a provincial variation of the important masked female entity, Mwana Pwo, who symbolizes the female ancestor, if in fact it is a female. The reddish powder (camwood) rubbed on the mask supports a female designation, as does the absence of male elements such as a prestige headdress and beard. The nose shape (long and thin with small nostrils), sleepy eyes with swollen lids, and mouth with exposed teeth filed to points are all characteristic of Chokwe and related styles. The facial scarification, however, is more like those of the Luba group, precursors of the Lunda Empire, which was eventually overthrown by the Chokwe.On View
Not on viewCollections
