A carved wooden mask from the Chokwe peoples, Angola, Africa. Carved wood, with reddish brown mineral pigment patina, traditional facial features and rich tattoos corresponding to the prevailing ideal of beauty, abundant coiffure with reddish brown dyed plant fibre headdress, remains of a costume backside, drilled holes around the rim ; the "mwana phwevo" masks were danced by men. They appear on various festive occasions in order to amuse the village people, especially women, with their charming dances. I have read that such masks were often danced opposite of clumsy clown like masks that mocked early european and american travelers. The mask itself measures 10 x 8 inches, not counting hanging regalia. ( 17.5 inches tall on stand) A custom wooden display stand will also be included.Completely original untouched patina.

fair, weathered