African Hand Carved Makonde Lipiko Helmet With Lip Plug, Fine Art

African Makonde Lipiko Helmet Mask.

Our Makonde helmet masks were hand carved by the Makonde artisans in Tanzania in the early 20th Century. Makonde masks represent ancestral spirits who temporarily return to earth to appear in dances that celebrate the conclusion of the initiation rituals of adolescent boys and girls. The Makonde tribe come from a minority ethnic group settled in southern Tanzania and northeastern Mozambique. The Makonde came to the region in the eighteenth and nineteenth century seeking refuge from the slave trade and they have continued ta experience a great deal of cultural transformation and change over the past century.

The mask is characterized by the realistic imitation of incise angular facial scarification marks, lip plug (ndonya) while its dark brown surface color suggests it represents a female character. The African Hand Carved Makonde Lipiko Helmet is a fine art piece made by the Makonde people of Africa. This helmet features a unique design with a lip plug, showcasing traditional craftsmanship and cultural significance. It serves as a collectible item representing African culture and artistry.

Measurements are 9 inches by 9.2 inches