Mask Item Number: Ac212 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Three dimensional helmet mask with black simulated hair at crown, and a bright yellow painted face in low relief with extensive black painted linear designs that are roughly symmetrical. The eyes and eyebrows are emphasized with black paint, and the mouth is painted red with several thin teeth and a central thicker piece of wood and metal representing the front teeth. There is a blue stone in a metal setting attached to each earlobe.
History Of Use
The Makonde practice masked ritual dances for a number of reasons. The mpiko often portrays the spirit Evil, who is ritually driven from a village. The item may, however, be a trade item only, not used for ritual purposes.
Cultural Context
Dance mask.
Item History
- Made in Tanzania
- Collected during 1967
- Owned by Tom A. Wylie before October 8, 1980
- Received from Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Tom A. Wylie (Seller) on October 8, 1980
What
Who
- Culture
- Makonde
- Previous Owner
- Tom A. Wylie
- Received from
- Museum of Anthropology Shop Volunteers (Funding source) and Tom A. Wylie (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Tanzania
When
- Collection Date
- during 1967
- Ownership Date
- before October 8, 1980
- Acquisition Date
- on October 8, 1980
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 100
- Accession Number
- 0665/0033