Female (pwo) mask, early 20th century (Chokwe peoples, Democratic Republic of Congo), wood, plant fiber, pigment, copper alloy, 39.1 cm high (Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, …

This mask represents pwo, the beautiful and poised female ancestor honored in the makishi masquerades performed by the Chokwe and neighboring peoples in Zambia, Angola and the …

This mask represents a beautiful young woman adorned with tattoos, earrings and an elaborate coiffure. The original Chokwe name (pwo) referred to an adult woman who had given birth. …

This work is an outstanding example of Pwo, a classic Chokwe mask genre that honors founding female ancestors. Such representations are especially significant given that the Chokwe trace …

mask genre that honors founding female ancestors. Such representations are especially significant given that the Chokwe trace descent through their mothers' lines. Pwo's joint …

This mask is identified as a Chokwe Pwo mask, a mask type used primarily in boys’ initiation rites in which they transition to manhood (mukanda).

Mar 6, 2017 · The Female (pwo) mask is an example of a classic Chokwe mask genre that honors founding female ancestors - known as Pwo. Such representations are especially significant …

Pwo mask (detail) Female (pwo) mask, Chokwe peoples, Democratic Republic of Congo, early 20th century, wood, plant fiber, pigment, copper alloy, 39.1 cm high (Smithsonian National …

Cite this page as: Kayla McCarthy, "Female (pwo) mask," in Smarthistory, November 20, 2024, accessed March 9, 2025, https://smarthistory.org/artwork/female-pwo-mask/. Your donations …

A female (Pwo) mask is a type of African mask used in ceremonies and rituals by the Chokwe people. It represents the idealized beauty and fertility of women.