Sukuma Ceremonial Dance Mask clasp the axe was likely used

the axe was likely used for cutting

and food preparation

which restricted Chinese ceramics from foreign markets

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

It is believed that these bottles may have been used in funerary rituals

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