masque « Mukishi wa Tchinlongho » - Sculpture - Chokwe - Angola

TCHOKWE, ANGOLA An old mask “Mukishi wa Tchinlongho” in wood with an aged patina and a headdress of plant fibers. At the back, natural wear from handling. The mouth is open and shows filed teeth. Cheeks tattooed and forehead adorned with Saint Andrew’s cross, a symbolic motif brought by the Portuguese during the 17th century. Tchihongo symbolizes power and wealth. The mask bearer, often the chief’s son, responsible for collecting the tribute, covers himself with a vegetal net and will tour village after village for two or three months, collecting each person’s gift. Tchokwé, southern Congo, northern Angola. Height: 23 cm Provenance: Former Belgian colony

Estimate:£547.32

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