A rare, old and interesting wooden mask from the Chokwe peoples, Angola, Africa. Carved wood, with lovely reddish brown patina, with stylized facial features corresponding to the prevailing ideal of beauty, abundant coiffure with reddish brown dyed plant fibre cord, beaded ornaments, remains of a costume backside. 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 measures 13 x 11 inches. A metal display stand can also be included for an additional $35.00.Ex~ Private Washington DC collection.

fair, good