People/Culture: Sukuma Region/Country: Tanzania (south of Lake Victoria) Materials: Reddish wood, aluminium Dimensions: Height 29 cm; 48 cm on custom metal stand (included) Provenance: Ex private French collection Dating: 20th century (first half to mid, by style and wear) Condition Honest wear and deep handling patina; stabilised age crack at the crown; carry/perforation hole at the top (and traditional fixing holes); aluminium inlays at the eyes and around mouth/chin with minor dents and small losses; minor nicks/abrasions overall. Very good condition for age — see photos. Description A rare, finely carved Sukuma mask with a strong, almost expressionist presence. The well-balanced face shows round eye apertures edged with aluminium, a motif echoed on the open mouth and chin; the upper teeth are rendered by small indentations in the metal, giving brilliance and volume to the features. Carved ears are clearly defined. The head is topped by a flattened coiffure/plateau with a central perforation, and the reddish wood displays a rich, old patina that enhances the sculptural planes and confirms ceremonial use. Context The Sukuma, Tanzania’s largest ethnic group, live around Mwanza and south of Lake Victoria, historically related to the Nyamwezi. During the dry season, initiation and association performances presented masks of this quality to promote prosperity and social cohesion, and to counterbalance chiefly divination/healing powers. Highlights - Rare, well-balanced Sukuma mask with aluminium inlays (eyes, mouth, chin) - Reddish wood with deep patina; crown crack stabilised; perforation/attachment hole at the top - Custom metal stand included