Accession Number2015/2.178
TitlePwo mask
Artist(s)ChokweArtist NationalityChokwe (culture or style)Object Creation Date20th centuryMedium & Supportwood and tukula powderDimensions 7 ¼ in x 5 ¼ in x 2 ¾ in (18.41 cm x 13.34 cm x 6.99 cm)
Credit LineGift of Robert M. and Lillian Montalto Bohlen in memory of Nancy Turner BohlenSubject matterAlthough this mask appears to be missing a coiffure, it still represents
pwo or
mwana pwo, an honored female ancestor that emphasizes ideal feminine beauty. These ancestral masks, called
akishi, including Pwo's male counterpart Cihongo, perform during male and female initiation events. By passing on information about Chokwe principles from one generation to the next,
akishi help provide the knowledge boys and girls need to become accomplished members of society.
Pwo masks are danced today at important events, but in the recent past were used in
boys' initiation (
mukanda). Male dancers perform as Pwo, emulating the steps of a woman. The triangular scarifications on the forehead is known as
cingelyengelye, based on the form of the cross brought by Portuguese monks during the 17th century.
References:
Jordan, Manuel (ed). 1998. Chokwe!: Art and Initiation Among the Chokwe and Related Peoples. Munich: Prestel Verlag.
Kreamer, Christine, Mary Nooter Roberts, Elizabeth Harney and Allyson Purpura. 2007. Inscribing Meaning: Writing and Graphic Systems in African Art. Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Institution; Milan: 5 Continents Editions.
LaGamma, Alisa. 2011. Heroic Africans: Legendary Leaders, Iconic Sculptures. New Haven: Yale Press.
Physical DescriptionOval-shaped face mask with slit eye-openings, a mouth with articulated teeth, and scarification on the forehead.
Primary Object Classification Sculpture Primary Object TypemaskAdditional Object Classification(s)Costume and Costume AccessoriesCollection AreaAfricanRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
http://umma.umich.edu/request-image for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.
Keywords
ancestors
beauty
masquerades
women (female humans)