Mask in the style of the Chokwe, Chockwe people
Mahogany
Central and Southern Africa Region
20th century

A performance or tourist trade mask of the Chokwe people or Bantu people. This tribe or cultural- ethnic- heritage group is known by several names. They are a Bantu ethnic group of Central and Southern Africa: Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia. A long standing heritage group with ancient traditions in hunting; agriculture, and trades unique to their people and their region.

For this culture; only leaders, elders, and holy people are allowed to perform in mask. Your example would be an item made for the tourism trade; as official masks have a mush shallower face form on the interior to fit the specific leader or holy-person. These masks are passed through family lines and are often buried in the same manner as a relative or human. The masks are used in a variety of ceremonies and rituals, and they represent a number of different seasons and help tell the stories of spirits or ancestral beings.

A long tradition of mask making, and each mask is unique to this group. Masks are made from a variety of materials, including papers, bark and fabrics. They are often decorated with intricate carvings and paintings. The almond eyes, face scarification, and teeth are hallmarks of Bantu representation. This example is carved from hard wood and has some pigment applied to the face surround, teeth, and marks across the face. Approximate measurements: 12 inches x 14 inches x 6 inches; Believed to be mahogany wood.

Any holes and decay to the wood are from wood-boring beetles. If this is noticed; I would suggest sealing the mask in an airtight plastic bag for many months, up to a year. I would also suggest restoration work to extract the larvae from the wood if you notice decay.