Description:

Eastern Africa, Tanzania, Sukuma peoples, ca. 1950 CE. An interesting mask carved from hardwood exhibiting the minimalist countenance of an ancestral figure. The tall face protrudes from beneath the broad forehead and showcases petite eye holes flanking a broad nose, a thin, smiling mouth, huge cupped ears, and a rotund chin with a short goatee. Rich patina in hues of caramel and chocolate brown have developed across the exterior surfaces and create a lustrous, earthy presentation. Sukuma ancestor masks like this example are typically adorned with fetish materials like metal plates or applied pigment, however this mask shines in its unembellished appeal. Lucite display stand for photography purposes only. Size: 9.75" W x 10.95" H (24.8 cm x 27.8 cm)

Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection, purchased in 2016 from Andrew Berz, Berz Gallery of African Art, San Francisco, California, USA; ex-private British collection

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#156480

  • Condition: The surface is weathered with some losses, notably to the top of the head. Very small area of inactive insect damage above one eye. Generally the mask is in fine condition with a rich, shiny patina.

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November 5, 2020 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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