African Chokwe Mask from DRC 
For young women of the ancient Chokwe tribe of Democratic Republic of Congo, puberty rites consisted of proceedings of rich traditions and native customs, and of course, traditional symbols and masks, prominent among them being the Chokwe mask. These initiation masks are said to bestow increased fertility on the spectators, specifically during rituals for the passage of women from adolescence to adulthood. The mask represents female ancestors depicted as beautiful young women, with high foreheads and balanced features. Made of wood and adorned with cowries and raffia, these masks are empowering, connecting one to age-old feminine ancestry.