Sukuma Ceremonial Dance Mask clasp the axe was likely used

the axe was likely used for cutting

A village diviner (thildaar)

Chip in the rim

which restricted Chinese ceramics from foreign markets

The body is adorned with geometric triangular motifs in classic Nazca hues of white and brownish-black

Sukuma Ceremonial Dance Mask clasp the axe was likely usedSukuma or Nyamwezi people, early 20th century, Tanzania A refined, aged Sukuma ceremonial mask featuring serene, geometric facial forms: small round eyes, a sharply pointed nose, and a narrow open mouth. The surface is painted in red, white, and black pigments. While Sukuma masks often display dramatic expressions with inset teeth and exaggerated features, this example shows a more measured, contemplative character. Such masks were traditionally worn