Strong Nyamwezi Mask

The Nyamwezi are the second largest ethnic group in Tanzania following the Sukuma, with whom they are closely related. The Nyamwezi people have played a key role in East Africa’s economy for centuries due to their central geographical position, equidistant from Lakes Tanganyika and Victoria and the shore of the Indian Ocean. The historically important town of Tabora and the rich agricultural land surrounding it lies within their lands and at the hub of ancient trade routes linking the Great Lakes and Congo Basin to the coast. Islam made inroads into the Nyamwezi population from 1800 onwards via the slave trade with Swahili coastal people and Arab traders. Even today, most Nyamwezi still adhere to traditional religious beliefs. Traditionally, the Nyamwezi believe in a powerful god named Likube (High God), a creator known as Limatunda, Limi (the Sun) and Liwelolo (the Universe). Veneration of ancestors is intrinsic to their daily practice through sacrifice of livestock and the spilling of drink. Witch doctors and diviners play key roles in counseling, healing and attending to anxieties over health, fertility, status and the future.

This bold mask was acquired in Dar es Salaam around 1991 by the late Lucien Guinneguez. The mask shows signs of use and has not been polished up for the market. $750

13.5″ H

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