Angola, . A mwana pwo (young woman) mask, Chokwe peoples, Angola / Democratic Republic of Congo, early to mid-20th century. The finely carved face embodies the Chokwe ideal of female beauty, with characteristic scarification markings, downcast eyes, and refined features. The original canvas headdress is preserved, composed of buttons, glass beads, and fiber elements — a rare survival of the complete costume context that would ordinarily accompany the mask in performance. Among the Chokwe, the pwo mask represents the founding female ancestor and is danced by male initiates to honor femininity, fertility, and the continuity of lineage. Mounted on a custom base.. 11.5”H (29.2cm).

Provenance: Private Hamptons collection; ex. Folklorica Gallery, NYC., (ca. 1970’s-2004).

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Item #71708