Tribal Art

Chokwe Mask (N° 23830)

Ex. Belgian African art collection.
This African Chokwe Pwo initiation mask differs from more recent examples in its features, size and finish, giving it a powerful character. Two-tone satin patina, lacks.
Height on base: 31 cm.
Peacefully settled in eastern Angola until the 16th century, the Chokwé were then subjected to the Lunda empire from which they inherited a new hierarchical system and the sacredness of power. The Chokwé did not have centralized power but large chiefdoms. They were the ones who attracted artists wishing to put their know-how at the exclusive service of the court. The artists created so many varied pieces and of such quality that the Lunda court only employed them. African Chokwe pwo masks, among the many akishi or "akixi" masks (sing: mukishi, indicating power) of Chokwe tribal art , are exclusively female representations which were accompanied by accessories and finery. They were, however, worn by high-ranking men. Together with their male counterparts, cihongo recognizable by their large plate-shaped headdress, the pwo must bring fertility and prosperity to the community. Peacefully settled in eastern Angola until the 16th century, the Chokwe were then subjected to the Lunda empire from which they inherited a new hierarchical system and the sacredness of power. The Chokwe did not have centralized power but large chieftaincies. They were the ones who attracted artists eager to put their skills to the exclusive service of the court. The artists created so many varied pieces of such quality that the Lunda court employed only them. The African Chokwe pwo masks ,among the many akishi or "akixi" (sing: mukishi , indicating power)of Chokwe tribal art, are exclusively female representations that were accompanied by accessories and adornments. They were, however, worn by high-ranking men. Joined to their male counterparts, cihongo recognizable by their large tray-shaped headdress, the pwo are meant to bring fertility and prosperity to the community.