MASK CHOKOUE

The Chokwe mask comes from the Chokwe people of Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These masks are renowned for their intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance. They are often made from wood, adorned with raffia, beads, and metal, and feature distinctive features such as high foreheads, slit eyes, and detailed scarification patterns, reflecting ideals of beauty and status.

Prominent types of Chokwe masks include:

• Pwo (Female Mask): Symbolizes femininity, fertility, and grace, often performed to honor ancestral mothers and promote social harmony.
• Cihongo (Male Mask): Represents wealth, authority, and power, typically associated with male leadership and prosperity.

These masks play vital roles in initiation rites, storytelling, and ceremonies that reinforce cultural identity and values.