Wednesday, 1 October 2008

PWO FOREHEAD MASK, CHOKWE, ANGOLA (CA)

Democratic Republic of Congo

Wood, fibre, textiles, metal ear-rings, cowries, beads, bakerlite.

Height: 22cm (wood mask only)

PWO symbolizes the eminent position of the woman in this matrilineal society, and evokes the female ancestor who exercises a favourable influence on her deScendants. The wearer, always a man, performs an elegant dance for the assembled public, and women in no way must ever touch the dancer. The scarification and coiffure played an important role in iconographic identification.

£375.00 (+£25.00 with custom made black iron stand)

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