Female mask “Mwana Pwo”

Title: “Mwana Pwo” Female Mask
Population: Chokwe
Geographical Area: Northeastern Angola, southern Democratic Republic of the Congo, northwestern Zambia
Date: 20th century
Materials: Lightweight wood, mineral pigments (kaolin, red ochre, blue/indigo pigment)
Dimensions: H. 28 x 16 x 16 cm
Function and Context: Mwana Pwo masks embody the feminine ideal of beauty, grace, and fertility. Worn exclusively by men during ritual dances, they are also used in mukanda male initiation ceremonies. The female representation in a male context symbolizes the values and qualities that the community hopes for in future adults.

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Female mask “Mwana Pwo”

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