1236 - Katoyo mask. Chokwe people, Angola–Democratic Republic of the Congo, 19th–20th century

Katoyo mask. Chokwe people, Angola–Democratic Republic of the Congo, 19th–20th century Wood. Dimensions: 58 × 19 × 10 cm. Ritual mask attributed to the Katoyo type, depicting non-Chokwe figures with features associated with Europeans or foreigners, such as an elongated face, a prominent nose, and rectangularly pierced eyes. These masks were used in ceremonial and initiation contexts, as well as in satirical representations intended to ridicule behaviors perceived as alien to the local culture, constituting an early symbolic response to the colonial presence. The piece retains its strong formal expressiveness and evidence of ritual use, making it a unique example within the Chokwe sculptural repertoire. Lot located in an international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipping: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required. Due to its age and history of use, this lot may show signs of wear and previous interventions. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, no specialized technical testing has been performed. The absence of any mention of restorations does not guarantee that none exist. You may request additional information before placing a bid. This does not affect the buyer’s statutory rights.