260737 - Old African mask from the Lwena - Angola.

Old African mask from the Lwena, Angola
Height: 19 cm.
This Lwena mask date from the mid 20th century and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

Beautifull aged Lwena mask from Angola. As with the neighboring Chokwe people, Lwena masks representing ideal young female beauty, Mwano Pwo, were danced with male counterparts, Chihongo, during initiation ceremonies and other important occasions to bring fertility and prosperity to the village. Most share the depiction of facial scarification patterns, filed teeth, fanciful and inventive hair styles. They are known for their high level of craftsmanship and aesthetic values.
Material: mask carved from hardwood, mask facered- brownish sweating layered patina.
Condition: Fine aged condition, signs of age and use.
Provenance: former private collection from the Germany.

The Lwena masks are distinguished by their elegant and often streamlined style. The facial features are often stylized and their proportions can be exaggerated to highlight certain characteristics.

These masks have a long history among the Lwena, dating back generations. They often represent ancestors, spirits, or important mythological figures in the Lwena cosmology. Each mask can have a specific story or be associated with a particular event in the history of the Lwena people.

The anthropomorphic Lwena masks are rich in symbolism. They embody the collective memory of the Lwena people, recalling the traditions, values, and teachings passed down through generations. They can also symbolize fertility, protection, healing, or other important aspects of daily and spiritual life.These masks are often used in important rituals such as coming-of-age ceremonies, weddings, healing rites, and community festivals. They serve as a link between the world of the living and the ancestral spirits, playing a crucial role in communicating with the spiritual world and maintaining social harmony.

Although these masks are deeply rooted in tradition, they continue to have contemporary significance among the Lwena. They are sometimes collected and displayed in museums and art galleries, thus helping to preserve and promote the cultural and artistic heritage of the Lwena at both the national and international levels.