Zoomorphic mask "suaga" · Cameroon, Mambila · ID: 3036530
Inge Arendts, Munich, Germany
Description
wood, shiny patina, polychrome paint, plaited plant fibre cord, rep. (breakage at the back of the head and at the left horn), traces of insect caused damage and abrasion;
the grotesque masks were worn on the head of a fiber-costumed dancer at “suaga” initiation rites and agricultural celebrations. The open beak is said to herald the dangers that lurk in the grounds of the farmer, and portend the nearness of the animals sought by the hunter. The triangular ears and protruding eyes may further imply watchfulness.
The object Zoomorphic mask “suaga” with the object ID 3036530 was part of the auction 76th tribal art auction on March 22, 2014. The object with the lot number 531 achieved a sales price of EUR 2,000 with an asking price of EUR 600.
You can find more Masks and other popular object types on our related topic pages. You may also be interested in our page on African art.
Comparing literature
Schädler, Karl-Ferdinand, Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture, München 2009, p. 412 f.