Face mask of a young maiden "mwana pwo" ·  Angola, Chokwe · ID: 3034942

Description

wood, dark- and reddish brown patina, delicate nose with middle groove, raised ornamental scarifications, elaborate knotted bonnet of plant fibre with fringes, slightly dam. (ears, eyes), metal base;
K.-F. Schädler reports, that present mask already was in Europe before the 1930’s.
“Pwo”, literal meaning “woman” represents a primordial female ancestor. The mask type performs social dances to highlight the beauty, morality, and abilities (natural and supernatural) associated with women. The mask appears on different ceremonial occasions, with the “mukanda"male initiation as its primary venue. It is exclusively danced by men. Women will commonly dance alongside the character, to challenge the performer’s skill and to make sure that the steps and movements or actions honor them appropriately and sufficiently.