Young maiden mask "mwana pwo" ·  R. D. Congo, Tchokwé · ID: 3038970

Description

wood, matt brown patina, black paint, kaolin, slightly dam., abrasion of paint (nose), base;
the elaborate coiffure on this mask takes the form of the mud-packed wigs that were favoured by Chokwe women. The facial scarification marks below the eyes represent tears, which may refer to the anguish mothers feel when they are ritually separated from their sons during “mukanda” initiation. The characteristic “chingeleyele” motif appears on both sides of the chin. It derived from the Maltese cross brought by the Portuguese.
Pwo", literally meaning “woman”, is a Chokwe mask character, representing a primordial female ancestor. The mask performs social dances to highlight the beauty, morality, and abilities 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 honour them appropriately and sufficiently.

Littérature comparée

Fagaly, William, Ancestors of Congo Square, New Orleans 2011, p. 318, ill. 169