Tribal Art

Makonde mask (N° 22348)

This African mask Makonde would embody an ancestral spirit. The ancestors would return masked in order to mark their satisfaction following the initiation. The modeling of the face in which the features pierce gives a particular naturalism to this mask which reveals an old yellow patina covering a first flesh-colored coating. In view of the perforations on the sides, accessories (hair, textiles, etc.) had to adorn the head. Abrasions, chips and cracks. br> Height on base: 30 cm.
The Makonde of northern Mozambique and southern Tanzania wore helmet masks called lipiko during initiation ceremonies for young people. The Makonde venerate an ancestor, which explains the abundance of naturalistic female statuary. Besides the face masks worn during mapiko dances and ngoma ceremonies that educate young people about the demands of marriage and family life. the Makonde also produce body masks featuring the female bust. embodying an ancestral spirit. The ancestors would return masked in order to mark their satisfaction following the initiation. Human hair is implanted, giving a certain realism.
Polychrome patina. Abrasions.

The Makonde of northern Mozambique and southern Tanzania wore helmet masks called lipiko during initiation ceremonies for young people. The Makonde venerate an ancestor, which explains the abundance of naturalistic female statuary. Besides the face masks worn during mapiko dances and ngoma ceremonies that educate young people about the demands of marriage and family life. the Makonde also produce body masks featuring the female bust.