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,…
The facial expression of the mask has been interpreted as many different things, one of the facial expressions it has been interpreted as is peacefulness. The reasoning for this is that the oval shape and the warm colours of the mask symbolize peace. The facial expression has also been interpreted…
This mask used during initiation , circumission or funeral ceremonies a dance will wear the mask and his body will covered with straw. Dimensions : 52x30cm Material : Wood , Pigment , Rafia Provenance : Acquired in Congo 1971 , Private Collection Estimated age : 1st Half XXth Century