Face mask "pwevo"
Bernd Schlimper, Düsseldorf, Germany
Description
wood, middle brown patina, grain of the wood visible, deeply grooved tattoos on forehead and nose bridge, round emblems on the cheeks, the open mouth carved with pointed teeth, drilled holes around the rim, slightly dam. (teeth, rim backside), base;
the artistic expression of the Luchazi are similar to those of the Luena. Their masks can be divided into two main categories: “makisi vavamala” (masks of the men) and “makisi vavampwevo” (masks of the women). The name of the mask “young woman” (“pwevo) refers to a mythic person, who died young and whose bereavement was recalled by dancing this type of mask. The masks were danced by men for entertainment and appeared on various festive occasions.