Tshihongo masks may be carved in wood or created in fiber. These bearded spirits embody the idea of prosperity by representing a man who has acquired wisdom and wealth. His power and import are enhanced by the carved crown and cingelyengelye pattern on his brow. This pattern represents profound concepts of the relationship between ancestors and the living. The “L” pattern beneath Tshihongo’s eyes refers to tears shed when young men become adults and “die” as children. Quite likely worn by a chief’s son, this mask is considered a male counterpart to pwo (the Chokwe version of the mwana wa pwevo on view in the next case).