Woyo masks are ritual masks made by the Woyo people of Central Africa. The masks are typically larger than a face and worn with a costume made of dried banana leaves or turaco plumage that covers the entire body. [1]

Woyo masks are carved for the ritual dances of the 'ndunga', a male society responsible for maintaining social order. Woyo masks are usually painted with contrasting colors against a white background and are often worn with a full length costume made from banana leaves.

Nov 29, 2022 · The Woyo masks are decorated with contrasting colours on a white background and are worn together with costumes created from banana leaves. The colours painted on the mask have a symbolic meaning, and at times, it gets repainted to renew the mask's power.

The masks appeared later during rituals of purification or protection against calamities, at funerals of dignitaries, or inductions of chiefs. Locally chipped polychrome crusty patina.

Kongo, African, Woyo Mask, late 19th or early 20th century, carved wood. Detroit Institute of Arts, Gift of the Honorable Jack Faxon, 2001.169. We regularly update our object record as new research and findings emerge, and we welcome your feedback for correction or improvement.

Nov 5, 2014 · The Woyo reside near the mouth of the Congo river, in western Congo and in the western part of the enclave of Cabinda in Angola. Their masks represent ‘earth spirits’, the most important spirits in the Woyo’s religious belief. The masks, called ‘ndunga’, are owned by the ‘Bakama’ secret society.

Traditional African masks are worn in ceremonies and rituals across West, Central, and Southern Africa. They are used in events such as harvest celebrations, funerals, rites of passage, weddings and coronations. Some societies also use masks to resolve disputes and conflicts. [1]

The ndunga masks of the Woyo are characterized by their large size. These masks are worn with proportionately voluminous costumes of dried banana leaves that fully cover the dancers’ body.

Nov 23, 2019 · Woyo masks are carved for the ritual dances of the ‘ndunga’, a male society responsible for maintaining social order. W oyo masks are usually painted with contrasting colors against a white background and are often worn with a …

The ndunga masks of the Woyo are characterized by their large size. These masks are worn with proportionately voluminous costumes of dried banana leaves that fully cover the dancers’ body.