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Dimitri André

This mask is part of the Gule Wa Mukulu ( the great dance). Nyau (also: Nyao meaning mask or initiation) is a secret society of the Chewa people. The Nyau society consists of initiated members of the Chewa people, forming the indigenous religion of the people. Initiations are separate for men and for women, with different ritual roles in the society according to gender and seniority. Only initiates are considered to be mature members of the Nyau . During performances women and children rush into the houses when a performer threatens, as the masks are worn by male members of the society and represent male knowledge. At that moment in the performance rituals, Nyau masked dancers are understood to be spirits of the dead. As spirits the masqueraders may act with impunity, there have been attacks and deaths during performances in the past.
    The location where this mask was collected is in proximity to Katete, the place where Kalonga Gawa Undi - The Paramount Chief of all Chewa people in Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia lives. 
Dimensions: 328x127x104mm
Materials: wood, paint
Weight: 344g
 Presents chips, cracks, scratches and signs of wear. Wood is in stable condition. 
The mask represents a fantastic creature which is part of the Chewa peoples folklore. 
 I guarantee the authenticity of this mask. 
 Fully Insured Shipping. 



Circa 1945 - Reasonable Condition

Nyau Bird Mask - CHEWA - Katete District - Zambia

African & Tribal Art

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Nyau Bird Mask - CHEWA - Katete District - Zambia

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African & Tribal Art

This object is no longer available, but there’s still lots to explore

Nyau Bird Mask - CHEWA - Katete District - Zambia

Popular in African & Tribal Art

923 objects

Related collections