Male standing figure
20th century
Lean and angular, this male figure was probably once costumed and carried into the artistic tornado of dance and singing duels that Nyamwezi leaders oversee. Wood sculptures were part of a full range of special effects employed to steal attention from the crowds—performers might swallow flames, bury themselves alive or set off smoke attacks. As this man’s face calmly wards off all intrusions, he undoubtedly witnessed many tricky maneuvers in this dazzling realm of creative competition.
Wood, natural pigments, and cloth
Gift of Dr. Oliver E. and Pamela F. Cobb, in honor of Mark Groudine
2012.29.21
Photo: Elizabeth Mann
