Male helmet mask "lipiko" with cap ·  Mozambique, Makonde · ID: 3046446

Description

light wood, paint, pigments, missing parts (trimmed at back edge), rest.

Helmet masks “lipiko” (pl. “mapiko”) represent ancestral spirits who temporarily return to earth to appear in dances that celebrate the conclusion of the initiation rituals of adolescent boys and girls.

The masks are noteworthy for their realism. They are often caricature-like, aptly portraying members of neighbouring groups, religious leaders or colonial officials.

Publications

AHDRC: 0170798