NDLI: Nyau Mask

Content Provider	IGNCA - Man and Mask
Description	These types of masks are made and used by a secret society of Chewa men of the Eastern Province of Zambia. The Nyau appear when boys who become of age are taken to the Dambwe (camp) to be taught general good behaviour and how to be good husbands and fathers. This ceremony lasts for one month. The Nyau also appear when a Chewa Chief dies and during memorials of members of the Nyau society. Like the Makisi of northwestern Zambia, the Nyau represent the spirits of dead people; hence, they are also called Zilombo (beasts). However, while the Makisi dancers put on their masks with complete costumes, the Nyau dancers only put on the masks and a dancing skirt. Besides being a skillful dancer one has to be trained in protective medicines before putting on a Chewa mask. There are many different Nyau characters, some depict the spirits of dead hunters while others depict important Chewa Chiefs. Nyau characters have varying functions. While some represent chiefs, others are food collectors - they go round the villages to slaughter goats, pig, and chickens and to demand maize flour for the boys at the Dambwe and their instructors.
Access Restriction	Open
Subject Keyword	Ancient Human Practice Anthropology Anthropomorphic Art Work Art History Ceremonies and Practices Chewa Dambwe Decorative Mask Disguise Drama Theraphy Museum Object Ornamentation Performance Performing Art Ritual Mask Sculpture Zambia Zilombo
Content Type	Image Text
Resource Type	Visual Artwork

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