The Chokwe people, known by many other names (including Kioko, Bajokwe, Chibokwe, Kibokwe, Ciokwe, Cokwe or Badjok), are a Bantu ethnic group of Central and Southern Africa. They are found primarily in Angola, southwestern parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Kinshasa to Lualaba), and northwestern parts of Zambia. [1]

For the Chokwe, combs (cisakulo) have a dual purpose. This utensil, with strong teeth, is used in the first place to untangle the hair of both men and women. However, combs can also be used to style and decorate the hair.

Furthermore, this Mwana Pwo mask has an elaborate, braided coiffure, dangling earrings, and pointy lower teeth. Among the Chokwe and related peoples, the mask’s appearance and its performance convey ideals regarding feminine beauty and behavior.

Chokwe women and men inserted finely decorated combs and pins in their hair to signal rank and wealth. Here, as among neighboring peoples, hairstyles reflected changing trends across place and over time.

Here, as among neighboring peoples, hairstyles reflected changing trends across place and over time. This comb's wooden material and sculptural top made it of a higher value than simple examples made from metal or cane. Its wide teeth were practical, securing elements of …

Mwana pwo (young woman) masks, danced by Chokwe men at festivals primarily for entertainment, are said to bestow increased fertility on the spectators. The masks represent female ancestors depicted as beautiful young women, with high foreheads, balanced features, filed teeth, and scarification.

Dec 13, 2024 · The Chokwe people have exposed the world to their hidden culture of arts, spirituality, and harmonic community through heritage, ceremonies, rites, and ancient stories.

large oval mouth with defined lips baring filed teeth, and a small nose framed by protruding eyes encircled by oval lids, wearing an elaborate coiffure, mutwe wa kayanda, of multiple undulating bands and carved horns at the

Comb; carved of wood; twelve teeth and three human figures wearing hats carved on handle.

Beautiful Tchokwe mask used in Mukanda ceremonies. The mouth opens to reveal filed teeth, a criterion of feminine beauty among the Chokwe. The bridge of the nose shows great attention to detail. The overall surface is smooth and satiny, with a scattered erosion of the chocolate patina.