Description : DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF CONGO, Second half 20th. C. Most Chokwe masks are Chihongo, spirit of wealth, and pwo, his consort. Gaunt features, high vertical hair, sunken cheeks, and jutting beard of an elder characterize a chihongo mask. Chihongo was formerly worn only by a chief or by one of his sons as they traveled through their realm exacting tribute in exchange for the protection that the spirit masks gave. While chihongo brings prosperity, his female counterpart, pwo, is an archetype of womanhood, an ancestral female personage who encourages fertility. As an ancestor, she is envisioned as an elderly woman. The eyes closed to narrow slits evoke those of a deceased person. Condition very good. H. 21'' W. 8'' D. 4 3/4''. ''Provenance Anne Narosny African Art Collection Estate'' Sale # 1 of 3''
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Estimate (low-high) : 175 USD-275 USDIt's free to register now to view!
About the lot N° 110 Title : Chokwe Mask Premier Auction Galleries, auctioneer, Chesterland, USIt's free to register now to view! Sale title : African Art, Dolls, Fine & Decorative Arts Auction Sale date : 20 Mar 2016It's free to register now to view! Sale Reference : Live Sale
