A very fine old carved wooden ceremonial mask with bold raised linear scar designs , large accented almond shape eyes and carved teeth, embellished with basketry form and woven grass headdress adforned with old glass beads. According to the Met Museum : The central cruciform on the forehead has been interpreted as a cosmogram while the markings on either cheek are described as a solar disc joined by tears. Chokwe masks are often performed at the celebrations that mark the completion of initiation into adulthood. That occasion also marks the dissolution of the bonds of intimacy between mothers and their sons. The pride and sorrow that event represents for Chokwe women is alluded to by the tear motif.Chokwe peoples, Angola, Africa. The mask measures 9 x 9 inches, not counting the hanging netting, which is quite tattered. A metal display stand can also be included for an additional $50.00Provenance: Ex. Private New York City Collection.

Good / fair, well worn