Misi gwa so'o (Chimpanzee Mask), 20th century
Hembaexpand_more
Woodexpand_more
Gift of David and Sara Liebermanexpand_more 2001.198.9
Not on Viewexpand_more
Chimpanzees are rarely featured in African art because their resemblance to humans can be unsettling. Exceptions are the misi gwa so'o masks of the Hemba. The exaggerated features of the half-human, half-chimpanzee mask contrast greatly with the noble and reserved ancestral figures of the classic Hemba style. The wide, open mouth and raised eyebrows were not meant to be comical, but rather fearsome and terrifying. Misi gwa so'o masks were used at funerals to symbolize the presence of death.
Details
- Title
- Misi gwa so'o (Chimpanzee Mask)
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2001.198.9
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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