Masque Chihongo - Chokwe - DR Congo (No reserve price)





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Masque Chihongo, an original Chokwe mask from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, carved in wood, 58 cm high and 19 cm wide, associated with the Chokwe culture and sold without a stand.
Description from the seller
In African art, the Chokwe Cihongo mask is the male counterpart of the Chokwe Pwo mask (female) and symbolizes the male ancestor.
The chin is carried forward, and the headdress is always fairly substantial in relation to the face.
The face is scarified according to the Chokwe custom.
Always worn by men, these masks are used in ritual dances dedicated to fertility.
They bring prosperity and fertility. However, when in the hands of sorcerers, they can take on a malignant character and become Wanga.
Seller's Story
In African art, the Chokwe Cihongo mask is the male counterpart of the Chokwe Pwo mask (female) and symbolizes the male ancestor.
The chin is carried forward, and the headdress is always fairly substantial in relation to the face.
The face is scarified according to the Chokwe custom.
Always worn by men, these masks are used in ritual dances dedicated to fertility.
They bring prosperity and fertility. However, when in the hands of sorcerers, they can take on a malignant character and become Wanga.

