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History Of Use

The masks are performed by men as masqueraders for middle grade initiation in the men’s secret society. They are also danced at festivals during the dry season to promote abundant harvest and at funerals of prominent members of society to escort the dead to the spirit world. The dancers mime the graceful movements and deportment of young women and sing in praise of both real and spirit maidens. The elaborate upper section is meant to portray nineteenth century ceremonial hairstyles that evoke wealth and royalty.

Description

Mmwo helmet mask. Carved from a single piece of wood, the mask depicts a female face with a large ornate coiffure. Light brown fabric is sewn on around the edges. The face is painted white, framed with brown. Finely carved protruding features: eyes are narrow slits, ears have round holes, raised eyebrows, three lines on forehead. A small brown pinwheel is carved on each cheek. Headdress is intricately carved and elaborately constructed. Side pieces hang down over ears in a V shape. A raised glass disk sits in the opening of each V. Four connected arches run from forehead to back of head supported by a large white wedge to either side. The middle arch is decorated with a series of raised, hollow rings alternately painted blue, white, tan, and brown. Inner side arches painted blue along tops.

Cultural Context

performance; dancing

Iconographic Meaning

Maiden spirts represent delicate beauty and the feminine character. The spiritual and moral qualities of young women are idealized through exaggerated small features and a pale complexion.