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,…
Used for Ceremonies the Whiteness is associated with positive characters (purity, goodness, light, breast milk …). The function of these Luba masks is beneficial; their dance must animate protective spirits. Height : 58x26cm Material : Wood , Pigment Provenance : Private Collection EStimated Age : early 20th Century
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…