Description
A popular and frequent occurrence in entertainment masquerades, mwana pwo represents a female ancestor but is always worn by a male dancer. This mask type symbolizes fecundity and the prominent role of women in Chokwe society. Although idealized, its features suggest the individuality of a portrait, raising the possibility that it may be modeled on a particular woman. Mwana pwo often features elements of beauty such as scarification and hairstyles.
Provenance
Helen and Mace Neufeld, Beverly Hills, CA; sold, Sotheby’s, New York, November 14, 1989, lot 279, to Ravi Kumar, Paris and New York [this and the following according to personal communication from Pace Primitive, dated May 22, 2013, documented in curatorial file; Pace Primitive inventory #54-0383]; sold on consignment by Pace Primitive, New York, NY, to John and Barbara Buxton, Shango Galleries, Dallas, TX, 1992 [Pace Primitive invoice #3501]; sold to the Art Institute, 1992.
Accession Number
120215
Medium
Wood, fiber, beads, and pigment
Dimensions
45.8 × 24.8 × 22.3 cm (18 × 9 3/4 × 8 3/4 in.)
Classification
masks
Credit Line
Major Acquisitions Centennial Endowment
