#1077 Rare Chokwe , Angola, D.of the Congo Zambia mask

This wooden mask, originating from Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia, measures approximately 9" by 6" by 7" and is a representation of the rare Chokwe culture (also known as Tshokwe, Jokwe, or Batshioko). Its dimensions altogether measure around 10.5" in height. Please refer to the attached photos for a more complete understanding. Note that one side of the mask may be incomplete due to the passage of time. Within the Chokwe culture, there are three types of masks: sacred, initiation (made of fibers), and dance masks. The female mask, known as pwo, and its male counterpart, cihongo, symbolize power. The male mask is distinguished by its wide mouth and horizontal beard, while the pwo embodies the ideal mother and woman with its facial scarifications and representation of fertility.