Mask (lipiko)
Makonde artist
1 of 6
Object Label
Lipiko masks are used by the Makonde at boys’ and girls’ initiation ceremonies to represent spirits. The masks are noteworthy for their realism, each depicting details of a particular facial type and hairstyle. Lipiko masks are often caricatures representing members of neighboring groups, religious leaders, and colonial officials.
Caption
Makonde artist. Mask (lipiko), 19th century. Wood, human hair, fiber, pigment, 13 x 10 1/4 x 11 1/4 in. (33 x 26 x 28.6 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Museum Expedition 1922, Robert B. Woodward Memorial Fund, 22.1588. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Culture
Title
Mask (lipiko)
Date
19th century
Geography
Place made: Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique
Medium
Wood, human hair, fiber, pigment
Classification
Dimensions
13 x 10 1/4 x 11 1/4 in. (33 x 26 x 28.6 cm)
Credit Line
Museum Expedition 1922, Robert B. Woodward Memorial Fund
Accession Number
22.1588
Frequent Art Questions
Were these masks used multiple times or were they created specifically for the boy or girl being initiated?
In most cases, a community would share these masks and pass them down, which leads to the general wear and tear and the build up of a patina.
Have information?
Have information about an artwork? Contact us at