Lot A52 - Sukuma Mask

Probably Sukuma region, northwestern Tanzania (attributed)

Wood.
Height: 36 cm.

Carved wooden helmet mask with pronounced brow ridge, narrow eye slits, projecting nose, and open mouth with carved teeth. Small perforations across the surface and along the rim indicate attachment of costume elements. Deeply hollowed at the reverse; leather thongs remain.

Dark brown patina with evident age wear and insect activity.

Stylistically consistent with masks from the Sukuma cultural sphere of the Lake Victoria region; attribution remains cautious in the absence of firm provenance.

Condition: age-related wear, insect holes and minor losses; structurally stable.