Male ancestral spirit mask "cihongo" ·  Angola, Chokwe · ID: 3033875

Description

wood, dark brown patina, redwood powder, of typical form: a disc-shaped projecting chin beard, nearly closed narrow slit eyes, a wide mouth filled with sharp teeth, unusual coiffure with side parting, min. best. (nose), minor missing parts (above all backside at the rim), rep. (chin beard), on pedestal;
“cihongo” is interpreted as a spirit of wealth and power. More abstract, more sacred and more powerful than its female counterpart “pwo”, the “cihongo” mask is seldom used in cirucumcision rites. It is related to the chieftaincy, and is more often used during royal ceremonies. Only dancers of royal blood are permitted to wear it.

Comparing literature

Wastiau, Boris, Visions of Africa: Chokwe, Mailand 2006, p. 42