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Object Name: Mask
Artist: Kashinakaji (old woman)
Cultural Group: Luvale or Luchazi peoples
Place of Origin: Zambia
Date/Era: Late 19th-20th century
Dimensions: H: 100.0 cm, W: 56.0 cm, D: 13.0 cm (H: 39.4 in, W: 22.0 in, D: 5.1 in)
Medium/Materials: Cordage, wood
Credit Line: Museum purchase with funds provided by Jay T. Last.
Accession Number: X2002.33.10
Fowler in Focus. The word kashinakaji means ”old person,” and through this mask, the character Kashinakaji performs as an old woman, articulating the demeanor, moral values, and attributes associated with a revered female elder. This mask still retains part of its costume, which is locally referred to as the ”body.” Makishi bodies are handwoven by men with natural fibers or cotton thread. Parts of these woven ensembles may be constructed using a simple loom.