Hand-Carved Makonde Mask–Tanzania –16\" X 8\" X 6\" African Tribal Art Deco For Sale

This mask was carved in the style of the Makonde people of Tanzania. The Makonde of Tanzania and Mozambique is one of the most prolific art-producing peoples in eastern Africa. One of the most prominent of these arts are the life-size helmet masks called Lipico, which are worn on the top of the head partially covering the face and slightly tipped upward so that the dancer can see. Masks play a prominent role in Makonde\'s life, serving to mark the end of the initiation and circumcision cycle for boys as they move into manhood. The Lipico masks show a wide range of Makonde life and society as they depict initiates, villagers, coastal Arabs, and colonial officials. The dimensions are 16 inches high,8 inches wide, and 6 inches thick. Pictures are an exact representation of the item.