
Description
Standing Sukuma ancestor figure from Tanzania. Great figure in it`s abstract forms. Good condition with a great patina of age.
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.
“The Sukuma people are a comparatively large tribe and number approximately one million. They live in small villages in the northern part of Tanzania,
each of which is headed by a chief who is also a sorcerer and whose power is counterbalanced by secret societies.
Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany. With certificate of Authenticity signed by professor Karl-Ferdinand Schädler.
Object
Ancestor Figure
Ethnic group:
Sukuma
Country:
Tanzania
Material:
Wood
Estimated period:
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:
Yes
Dimensions:
29x7x7 cm
Weight:
450 g
Condition:
Good condition, used with some signs of wear
Reserve: $250.00
Shipping:Domestic: Flat-rate of $39.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S. International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT. Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding. Location: This item ships from The Netherlands
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
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.
“The Sukuma people are a comparatively large tribe and number approximately one million. They live in small villages in the northern part of Tanzania,
each of which is headed by a chief who is also a sorcerer and whose power is counterbalanced by secret societies.
Provenance: Manfred Schäfer collection, ex- gallery owner from Ulm, Germany. With certificate of Authenticity signed by professor Karl-Ferdinand Schädler.
Object
Ancestor Figure
Ethnic group:
Sukuma
Country:
Tanzania
Material:
Wood
Estimated period:
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand:
Yes
Dimensions:
29x7x7 cm
Weight:
450 g
Condition:
Good condition, used with some signs of wear
Reserve: $250.00
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Ancestor Figure – Wood – Sukuma – Tanzania – Schädler certificate
Estimate $300-$350
Starting Price
$120
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Decorative Tribal Art Sale
Feb 26, 2026 1:00 PM ESTNew York, NY, United States
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