Female (Pwo) mask
Female (Pwo) mask. Chokwe peoples (Democratic Republic of the Congo). Late 19th to early 20th century C.E. Wood, ber, pigment, and metal. Chokwe people, Democratic Republic of Congo Meant for dancing; resembles woman, worn by men Made by man; meant to honor women; particularly those young, fertile, or successful in childbirth; mothers; important stage in life Matrilineal culture; wood; very thin; graceful, fluid dancing; whole bodysuit sense of calm in the face; closed eyes, mouth; respected; doesn't need to open eyes, she's already knowing deep red; earth, oil; white powder around her eyes; symmetrical face; wide forehead accentuated by hairstyle; constant circles; pounded eyes around the eyes; tattoo patterns Broke away from larger culture; ideal woman; ideal virtues; fashionable hairstyle at the time; performed for women