SUKUMA STYLE DANCE FIGURES, Tanzania
This piece has not been vetted therefore our default position is that it may have been made for the art market.
Despite their appearance the Sukuma figures below were probably made to be sold.
This piece has not been vetted therefore our default position is that it may have been made for the art market.
Despite their appearance the Sukuma figures below were probably made to be sold.
Figure 10 21" high SOLD |
Figure 11 52" high SOLD |
Figure 7 32" high SOLD |
Little is known of these strange figures, danced by the Sukuma a northern Nyamwezi people. Features are undistinguished, gender is often undefined. The figures, called mabinda, with moving parts (present or missing) are used in very theatrical, competitive and often provocative dance performances. The other figures relate to grave markers or are part of a chief's treasury. Nyamwezi figures are often similar but usually with inset beaded eyes.
There is a good article on the Sukuma dance ceremonies by Aimee Bessire in the Spring 2005 issue of African Arts.
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