MUMUYE, Taraba State, Nigeria. - Lot 471

MUMUYE, Taraba State, Nigeria. Sukwava mask worn on the shoulders or head, of arched form, with a long tubular neck supporting an expressive head. The face features a prominent nose, round eyes hollowed by incision, scarified cheeks, large ears and a small mouth sculpted in relief. The head is topped by a stylized sagittal crest. Hardwood, old brown and honey patina, remnants of white pigments, marks of use. Height 160 cm. Width : 25 cm. Depth: 27 cm. Provenance : Former private collection, Paris Ritual mask emblematic of the Mumuye people, used for healing, fertility and rain invocation ceremonies. It reflects a singular sculptural aesthetic specific to this culture, combining formal strength and ritual symbolism.