African Chokwe Mask With Braids & Locks - Congo DRC
Handcrafted in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, this vintage, mid-20th century Mask is an idealized conception of female Chokwe beauty. It is crafted using hand-carved wood with Raphia and other vegetable fibers use for the feminine braided twist coiffure. The filing of the teeth, tattoos and scarifications as represented in this unique mask also personifies the beauty of the Chokwe woman. The braided "hair" is firm and secure; the wooden locks were intricately made and are held away from the mask by a vegetable fiber netting.
There is a rich patina on this ceremonial mask from years of handling. Each side has 3 holes so that mask can be secured to the wearer.
All masks in my collection were selected and purchased by me while in Africa many years ago and have been well taken care of.
Approximate Dimensions Mask: 9.5" H X 9" W (With the Stand it stands 17" from the bottom of the stand to the top of the mask.
The custom stand: 8" L X 8" W X 1.5" H"
Stand is Included