Mambila mask - Nigeria
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
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Description from the seller
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Mambila
Material. Wood
Dimension. H 38. L 15 cm
Shipping mode. Colissimo within 24-48h, open
This is a typical and remarkable example of a Mambila mask, originating from the border region between Nigeria and Cameroon. In the context of African tribal art, this piece is associated with the Suaga (or Sukwak) society.
This mask features highly stylized zoomorphic traits. The elongated form and the gaping mouth, equipped with sculpted teeth, typically evoke a crocodile or a reptilian creature, symbols of power and danger in Mambila culture.
One of the most distinctive features of this mask is the pair of globular eyes mounted on stalks or tubular projections. This exaggeration of the eyes is a classic iconographic element among the Mambila, aimed at giving the mask a supernatural expression and keen vision.
Material and patina: It is carved from wood, bearing a dark patina, worn by time and ritual use, which testifies to its antiquity and to its handling during ceremonies.
The form is both robust and angular, typical of Mambila sculpture which favors geometric volumes over pure naturalism.
The Suaga Society: These masks are symbols of the Suaga society, a male organization that plays the role of social regulator. This society is responsible for maintaining order, resolving disputes, and enforcing communal justice.
The mask bearer would intervene during healing rites, initiations, or during ceremonies related to the management of village judicial affairs. The mask acts as an intermediary between the world of spirits (whose power it channels) and the human community.
By wearing this mask, the dancer embodies a protective and formidable force. The crocodile, because of its habitat (between land and water), is often seen as a mediator or a force capable of navigating between different worlds, which reinforces the wearer’s authority during decisions made by the Suaga society.
In summary, this piece is not merely a decorative object but a powerful ritual tool that embodies the moral and spiritual authority within Mambila society.
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Mambila
Material. Wood
Dimension. H 38. L 15 cm
Shipping mode. Colissimo within 24-48h, open
This is a typical and remarkable example of a Mambila mask, originating from the border region between Nigeria and Cameroon. In the context of African tribal art, this piece is associated with the Suaga (or Sukwak) society.
This mask features highly stylized zoomorphic traits. The elongated form and the gaping mouth, equipped with sculpted teeth, typically evoke a crocodile or a reptilian creature, symbols of power and danger in Mambila culture.
One of the most distinctive features of this mask is the pair of globular eyes mounted on stalks or tubular projections. This exaggeration of the eyes is a classic iconographic element among the Mambila, aimed at giving the mask a supernatural expression and keen vision.
Material and patina: It is carved from wood, bearing a dark patina, worn by time and ritual use, which testifies to its antiquity and to its handling during ceremonies.
The form is both robust and angular, typical of Mambila sculpture which favors geometric volumes over pure naturalism.
The Suaga Society: These masks are symbols of the Suaga society, a male organization that plays the role of social regulator. This society is responsible for maintaining order, resolving disputes, and enforcing communal justice.
The mask bearer would intervene during healing rites, initiations, or during ceremonies related to the management of village judicial affairs. The mask acts as an intermediary between the world of spirits (whose power it channels) and the human community.
By wearing this mask, the dancer embodies a protective and formidable force. The crocodile, because of its habitat (between land and water), is often seen as a mediator or a force capable of navigating between different worlds, which reinforces the wearer’s authority during decisions made by the Suaga society.
In summary, this piece is not merely a decorative object but a powerful ritual tool that embodies the moral and spiritual authority within Mambila society.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Mambila mask
Height
38 cm
Width
15 cm
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