Central Africa, Angola, Zambia, and Democratic Republic of the Congo, Chokwe peoples, ca. mid to late 20th century CE. An evocative wood mask known of a Mwana Pwo or young woman displaying idealized features of a symmetrical visage, a tall forehead, filed teeth, and scarification. Old repairs at the top of the mask indicate it was highly valued by its owner. Danced by Chokwe men at festivals primarily for entertainment, Mwana Pwo are said to bestow increased fertility on the spectators. The masks represent female ancestors depicted as beautiful young women. The cruciform design on the forehead as probably derived from tin pendants traded into the Chokwe region by Portuguese voyagers as early as the 17th century. Size: 4.3" L x 6.3" W x 10.9" H (10.9 cm x 16 cm x 27.7 cm)

Provenance: private Arlington, Virginia, USA collection

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#185813

    Condition:
  • Old repairs to fissures at top periphery, forehead, and proper right brow with metal staples for support. Nicks and abrasions as shown, but otherwise, intact with good detail and rich patina. Leather suspension cord tied to top for display.

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by Artemis Fine Arts
January 30, 2025 8:00 AM MST
686 S. Taylor Ave., #108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Artemis Fine Arts

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