These masks were worn by members of the powerful “Ibuku” society. The fearless “buku” required initiates to produce the head of an enemy or individually kill a lion or leopard. Masks were also used to evoke ancestor spirits and frighten the enemy in battle. Height : 42 x 25 cm…
This is a very fine Mbunda Masks , which are characterized by their shape, proportionally exaggerated features . this mask represents a cultural archetype, a hero hunter revered as ancestor . Dimensions : 67x44cm Material : Wood Provenance: Collected in Zambia 1960 , Private Collection Estimated age : Early 20th…
Looks like the shield of a turtle most of these rare masks would have been worn on top of the head , it was used by secret society , a group of powerful men . Height : 30 x 30cm Material : Ceramics Age : Collected In 1970 , Estimated…
For the Songye, the term kifwebe generically means mask. This designation, kifwebe, was used for the first time in 1905-1906 . The first cults of kifwebe masks began at the turn of the 20th century. this mask became an instrument of social power , color of this mask are symbolic…
This mask was used by the Nkunda secret society for the initiation of young men into adulthood. Height : 28x19cm Material : Wood , Pigment . Estimated age : 20th Century
A large ancient dance mask from the SUKUMA tribe of northern Tanzania. Mid 20th century. powerful expression The Sukuma are a Bantu ethnic group inhabiting the south-eastern African Great Lakes region in Tanzania. Sukuma means “north” and refers to “people of the north. Sukuma masks served various purposes in society,…