Masks (Lipiko)

Date20th century

Label TextWhile vividly realistic, the actual character each Makonde mask portrays cannot be known without documentation of its performance. This mask is likely to have been worn by a senior man, whose interpretation would involve fast whirling motions, rising dust and loud drums that would stop abruptly to interject a sudden stillness. With the masked face only nodding slightly, the face with a frozen expression, since it does not relax from an unsmiling presence.

Object number2004.106

Published ReferencesMcClusky, Pamela. Repeat, Repeat, A Community of Collectors, Seattle, WA: Seattle Art Museum, 2008, p. 133, illus. 110.

Credit LineGift of Dr. Oliver E. and Pamela F. Cobb, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum

Dimensions10 x 11 x 8 in. (25.4 x 27.9 x 20.3 cm)

MediumWood, human hair