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84 - Pwevo mask Chokwe cultural complex (Lovale) - Zambia Materia…
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Estimate €2,000 - €3,000
Sale commission
Description
Pwevo mask Chokwe cultural complex (Lovale) - Zambia Material: Wood, metal. Base included (gallery condition). Provenance: Former collection of Edmond Verfaillie (1892-1962), a prominent figure associated with the companies operating in the Belgian Congo under Belgian state administration, notably Forminière and Union Minière. Preserved by family descent. This ancient provenance is part of a particularly coherent collection and has been preserved by family descent. Dimensions: H. 21 cm ( 35 cm with stand ) Pwevo female masks are among the most accomplished creations of the vast Chokwe-Luvale Chokwe-Luvale cultural complex, whose artistic traditions have given rise to some of the most some of the most emblematic female representations in Central Africa. Associated with the ideal of beauty, fertility and feminine virtues, they occupy a major place in the initiation initiation societies of this region. The piece presented here stands out for its exceptional sculptural quality. The face, of remarkable harmony, immediately captivates with its gentle expression and masterful of its proportions. The deeply sculpted almond-shaped eyes give the gaze a calm, meditative presence. the gaze a calm, meditative presence, while the finely modelled mouth discreetly animates the face with an expression imbued with serenity. The long, tapering chin accentuates the elegance of the composition and contributes to the impression of nobility emanating from the work. The sculptor's refinement is also evident in the particularly meticulous treatment of the ears the regularity of the scarification marks that enliven the surface of the face, as well as in the discreet and in the discreet metal ornaments cleverly placed on the forehead, cheeks and chin. chin. Far from weighing down the composition, these elements subtly enrich the sculpture and reinforce its precious character. and reinforce its precious character. The superb red-brown patina, deep and luminous, admirably the quality of the modelling and bears witness to a long history of use and conservation. Above and beyond its ethnographic importance, this mask is impressive above all for its presence. Rarely has a Pwevo managed to combine grace, balance and expressive intensity so perfectly. expressive intensity. The quality of its execution, the finesse of its details and the silent power that emanates from it place this work among the finest in the world. this work among the most remarkable achievements of this prestigious stylistic corpus. stylistic corpus. A sculpture of the highest order, its aesthetic force rivals that of the finest examples examples of the Luvale and Chokwe traditions.
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About the sale ARTS OF AFRICA & OCEANIA: Three exceptional family collections
Auction location
Auction time 06/22/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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