Mask "mwana pwo"

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Description

wood, shiny blackish brown patina, kaolin, the play between concave and convex surfaces gives this piece a unique sculptural strength and the light surface decoration emphasizes the plastic balance; this mask rests between the two extreme characteristics of Chokwe art, geometric abstraction and a realism firmly based on the observation of nature, pierced around the rim, rep. (breakage at the back of the head), small missing parts (forehead, right cheek), slight traces of abrasion, fine cracks;
a mask by the same artist can be found at Sotheby’s, Tribal Art, 21st June 1993, lot 190. Several characteristics in the treatment of the face bring it closer to the style of the small Mbagani group, particularly the rings around the eyes and mouth.

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Comparing literature

Sotheby's London, 21st June 1993, lot 190 (comparable object)

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