This is a beautiful African Makonde Body Mask from the people of Tanzania. The female body mask was used at initiation rites. It was part of the costume of a "ndimu" mask dancer, called "amwalin-dembo", depicting a pregnant woman. This is one of the the most important rituals is the initiation cycle. For a period of six months both boys and girls are placed into seclusion where they are taught the rules of adult behavior, sex and the rights and obligations of marriage. This special body mask, carved from wood with breasts and swollen stomach and adorned with MaKonde scarification bars which are symbols of tribal pride and beauty. The body mask along with a matching female face mask is worn by a male dancer. He performs a mesmerizing dance that dramatizes the agonies of childbirth. An outstanding and unique item to add to your collection or home or office.
Shows age,loss of color and patina, but in good condition.
4" Tall
17.5" Long
8.5" Wide
4" Deep
AT BACARA WE STAND BEHIND ALL OF OUR MERCHANDISE. WE CAN PROVIDE REFERENCES FOR ALL ARTIFACTS THAT WE SELL, AS WELL AS DOCUMENTATION TOWARD THEIR AUTHENTICITY. FULL MONEY BACK GUARANTEE WILL BE PROVIDED FOR DISSATISFIED CUSTOMERS. YOUR SATISFACTION IS OUR MAIN GOAL, AND WE THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING AT THE WORLD OF BACARA. HB2018 #119 #2
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept returns and exchanges
Just contact me within: 3 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 7 days of delivery
I don't accept cancellations
But please contact me if you have any problems with your order.
The following items can't be returned or exchanged
Because of the nature of these items, unless they arrive damaged or defective, I can't accept returns for:
- Custom or personalized orders
- Perishable products (like food or flowers)
- Digital downloads
- Intimate items (for health/hygiene reasons)
- Items on sale