The masks and god statues called mapiko are the works that became the background for the carving of modern Makonde sculptures. Among the Makonde people, there were shamans, and they performed rituals such as dancing with masks, god statues, armor, musical instruments, and medicinal herbs to pray for a good harvest and fertility, and exorcism to cure illnesses. Every village had one or two carvers who carved the sculptures used for these.
Lip plugs are accessories that Makonde women insert into holes in their upper lips. In the past, both men and women wore them, but nowadays, they are only seen in older women.
Tattoos are seen all over the world and are not uncommon, but in Africa, they are used to symbolize tribes through designs. The Makonde people also use needles to insert dye under the skin and carve patterns. The designs on the torso are said to have a unique meaning for the Makonde people.
People who live in the vast natural environment of the African continent have a wide variety of lifestyles. There are ethnic groups that live an agricultural lifestyle and believe in ancestors, spirits, and myths, as well as cultures that involve pastoralism and hunting.
We exhibit folk materials such as musical instruments, masks, farm tools, spears, bows and arrows, and clothing, allowing visitors to get closer to the lives and culture of people living in faraway Africa.
