Dimensions: H:14.2" W:7.9" L:5.9" Weight: 1.8 lbs.
Makonde Female Body Mask from southern Tanzania and Mozambique – This unique body mask from the Makonde people of southern Tanzania and Mozambique depicts a young, pregnant woman. It is used by the dancer to represent a woman's painful childbirth. Male Makonde dancers use these body masks and matching helmets or face masks during the big ‘Mapiko' dance initiation rites for young people to prepare them for their future roles as husbands and wives.
About the Tribe
The Makonde are an ethnic group who originated in Mozambique. They originally lived on the shores of Ruvuma River and later moved to settle on Mueda Plateau. They currently live in Mozambique and Southeast Tanzania and have a small presence in Kenya.