Mask - Chokwe - Angola

Chokwe mask – Angola / DRC – traditional sculpture, authentic hairstyle, commanding presence

Superb ancient Chokwe mask, made according to traditional canons, very primitive and presented with its original coiffure, an element that has become rare when pieces have truly lived and circulated. The overall piece exudes an immediate presence: a long face, perfectly mastered lines, and an expression at once calm and authoritative, typical of the finest prestige masks.

The sculpture work is fine and assured: a domed forehead, marked brow ridges, eyes half-closed in a slit, an elongated nose, a mouth with visible teeth, with discreet scars/incised lines that enhance the character. We particularly appreciate the deep patina, sometimes gleaming, tied to handling and wear, which catches the light and gives the wood a beautiful density.

The braided-fiber hairstyle, voluminous and carefully assembled, frames the face like a true “staging” and underscores the model’s elegance. This type of preservation (mask + adornment) contributes greatly to the aesthetic aspect, but also to ethnographic interest, as it recreates the complete silhouette and the visual effect sought during appearances.

A collectible piece, powerfully expressive.

Overview of our expertise firm:

Based in Belgium, our appraisal and sales house has been assisting collectors and families for many years, with a simple approach: seriousness, transparency and service. We enjoy a solid reputation among tribal art enthusiasts and are among the leading sellers on Catawiki, where we count ourselves among the oldest merchants (more than 8 years).

We have specialized in valuing and ensuring the liquidation and dispersion of dozens of family collections, and have sold thousands of objects in partnership with private individuals, notaries, estates, inheritances, and collection cessations. Our track record speaks for itself: hundreds of evaluations nearing 100% positive feedback, an indicator that is worth more than any discussion of our commitment and reliability.

Pieces that have passed through our hands are today in prestigious collections and, for some, have joined museum institutions — a guarantee of the quality and consistency of our selection throughout the year. We regularly offer no-reserve sales.

Express shipping: dispatched within 24 hours, insured, tracking (tracking), and extremely careful and secure packaging.

Contact 7 days a week: we respond quickly and remain at your disposal to advise you and document the items currently for sale.