The Egun mask is inspired by key facial features seen in Chihongo – a male ancestor found among the Chowke of Angola and believed to be responsible for the prosperity and strength of the community.
African Masks are greatly appreciated for their artistic value.
They adorn the walls of some of the most recognized museums and galleries across the globe.
However, beyond face value and their surface beauty, these peculiar “artifacts” possess a deeper significance.
Thus, understanding their history is an essential part of appreciating their cultural, symbolic, and aesthetic value.
In the African context, masks serve an important role in rituals or ceremonies with varied purposes like ensuring a good harvest,
addressing tribal needs in time of peace or war, or conveying spiritual presences in initiation rituals or burial ceremonies;
ideas that aren’t seen in a museum collection or when sold as a collector’s item at the auction.
Chowke : Ancestors are the link between what is seen and not seen on the earth plane;
you can talk to them and ask for their help and guidance when you need it.
Because they were once alive as humans,
they have a good understanding of our needs,
desires, and wants even from the other side.
Source : 54 Kingdoms
