Southeast Tanzania and Northern Mozambique
Makonde

African Blackwood
Mid 20th century
Height: 13 in
Other – Regalia

While the Tanzanian Makonde have somewhat different cultural practices from those in Mozambique, they both are matrilineal societies and have a well-established carving tradition.  These carving traditions are taught to their young men during initiation ceremonies.  Helmet masks called Mapiko (singular Lipiko) were carved from mpingo (African blackwood) for the sacred event of the initiation (coming of age) ceremonies and were worn by elders to celebrate the initiation of boys. They are quite realistic, depicting details of a particular facial type and hairstyle, representing religious leaders, or living characters (real or idealized).  Traditionally only men were carvers, however, in present times masks are also carved by women and are used in instructional gatherings and public plays and performances. The helmet is worn with the front lifted upward, allowing the wearer to see through the lips.

Reference:  Makonde Art – African Blackwood Conservation Project