The Sukuma in northwestern Tanzania have had special dance societies engaging in competitions against each other since the 19th century. On dance floors in the villages or in football stadiums in the cities. The leaders of victorious dance groups were celebrated and venerated like ‘pop stars’ among the Sukuma. These dance societies include: dancers, drummers, masks, snakes and these large dance figures made of wood ('Ibinda', plural: 'Mabinda'). They are placed along the edge of the dance floor and also used for dancing. With coarse jokes to entertain the audience. The appearance and execution of these dance figures also play an important role in the evaluation of the respective dance societies by a jury. The present large, female dance figure of the Sukuma is made of hard, heavy wood, coloured red and white. The upper half of the face is covered with aluminium sheet metal. Under these sheet metal covers ‘magic substances’ are often kept that are believed to favour the victory of the dance society to which the figure belongs. Four animal teeth are inserted in the open mouth. A rare, typical piece, with visible usage patina. Circa mid-20th century.; H: 212 cm. (ME)

Provenance: Austrian private collection.

Literature: 'Shangaa. Art of Tansania' by Gary van Wyk, p. 278 to 293 (text), ill.: cover image of the book, fig. 10.23, fig. 10.24, fig. 10.25, fig. 10.26, fig. 10.27, p. 299, fig. F.2.

Additional photo:
Cover of the new book, ‘SHANGAA. Art of Tanzania’ by Dr Gary van Wyk