Masks with a wooden beard-like chin extension, known as Giwoyo, were used mainly in performance situations. The dancers carry fly swatters and have cat-like skin attached at the belt. while these attributes are related to leadership, the dances and songs refer rather to the hunt. In former times the farming cycle was paired to collective hunts and the sowing of millet provided an occasion for the masks performance. The Giwoyo mask belongs to the "Mafuzo" mask category: malevolent apparitions who close the performance. The personage dances on the border between the village and savanna. His function is to assure the sunrise.
This fine example of the Pende Giwoyo mask measures 11.5" tall, 7" wide, and 11" deep. When displayed on the included stand, it reaches a height of 14".
This fine example of the Pende Giwoyo mask measures 11.5" tall, 7" wide, and 11" deep. When displayed on the included stand, it reaches a height of 14". ex James Schmidt collection New York.
