DESCRIPTION: Beautiful Unique Tribal Antique African Carved Wood Fertility Pregnant Woman Belly 20x11"

MAKONDE NJOROWE BELLY MASK

Belly mask in african art

A wooden njorowe mask representing the body of a pregnant female, carved to reveal the forms of the body, The belly is swollen and displays a distended navel, the side of the mask has a series of holes for the attachment of a raffia fringe.

These highly unusual and distinctive masks are known as lipiko, and are worn on the forehead at ceremonies that celebrate the return of boys from bush camp, as well as other initiation ceremonies for boys and girls. They represent a pregnant young woman known as amwali ndembo. The Makonde are matrilineal and hold women in high regard. They trace their origins to a female ancestor who was carved from wood by the first man. In the creation tale, the woman became real and gave birth to the first man’s many children, who would go on to become the Makonde people.

Super lightweight wood, under 2 lbs

Ready to hang as wall decor. Certainly a statement piece and conversation starter

AGE: We believe this to be older than the others shown online which date to the 1950's. this appears to be much older, early 1900's

CONDITION: Old repairs, surface cracks. wear to the finish. chip to edge with piece missing. overall wear and scuffs. 

MEASUREMENTS: Overall 20" tall x 11" wide x 5-1/4" deep. 

Please view photos of actual items carefully, as this is a part of the item's description and condition. Most of the items we sell are vintage and have some kind of wear from age and handling unless otherwise stated.

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SHIPPING & HANDLING

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