Mbole Hanged Figure — Democratic Republic of Congo Mid-20th Century An exceptional Mbole "hanged" male figure from DRC. A nicely carved example with red pigment on half of the face and white textured kaolin paint on the other half and down the torso. The Mbole are known principally for their hanged figures known as "Ofika", which tend to be characterized by their geometric features, elongated emaciated bodies, enlarged heads with heart-shaped faces and crown-like coiffures. The legs dangle and arms rest on knees and appear inverted. The Mbole people construct their lives around a semi-secret society known as Lilwa Nkoi. They exercise social control over Mbole life and punish those who make transgressions against the tribe. Ofika figures such as this, represent men or sometimes women who were hanged for transgressing the moral and legal laws. The figures were shown to youths during their initiation into the association to illustrate the consequence of immoral conduct and also to instill in them respect for the authority vested in elders and leaders. Ofika were also displayed on other solemn occasions, such as executions, during periods of persistent bad hunting, when oaths were taken, and when serious conflicts between parties were settled. Each ofika bears the name of a specific hanged individual. Condition is near excellent. Some pigment wear and general light surface wear along with minor chips and cracks consistent with age. Shows signs of age and tribal use. Custom metal display stand is included as shown. Approx. 25" tall. Approx. 26" tall on stand $750

Yoruba Gelede Mask — Nigeria Early to Mid-20th Century A lovely Yoruba Gelede mask from Nigeria. A visually striking example, well carved and of high quality showing exquisite craftsmanship. As is typical of Gelede masks of this period, the forehead is prominent along with stong, almost exaggerated features. There is facial scarification on the forehead and cheeks. The face is a brownish ochre color with a darker color (once black) for the hair. Gelede masks, such as this one, were worn by male Yoruba dancers at festivals honoring the women of the community, both living and dead. The masks were "danced" in elaborate performances known as "Gelede." This ritual would take place each year at the beginning of a new agricultural season. The purpose of the performance is to pay tribute to the special power of women, both elders and ancestors, who are known affectionately as "our mothers." Through their movements, gelede dancers express Yoruba ideals of male and female behavior. Condition is near choice. Some pigment fading, general light surface wear, worm-holes and minor insect damage consistent with age. An exceptional example with obvious signs of age and tribal use. Custom metal display stand is included as shown. Excellent provenance. Originally collected in the early 1950s by a Canadian geologist working in Western Africa for Esso Petroleum (now Exxon). The mask was later purchased in the 1980s by V. Richards, now retired Anthropology professor at Wake Forest University in North Carolina. Approx. 11" tall x 6.5" across. Approx. 15" tall on stand $1400

Kwele Mask — Gabon Mid-20th Century A fine older Kwele mask from Gabon of western coastal Africa. Lovely form and well carved example with large areas covered with white textured kaolin paint. The white coloring on the mask represents the spirit world - peace and tranquility. This example has pierced eye slots although eyeholes are not always cut through. Kwele mask are not worn on the face during ceremonies and instead are hand-held and shown to the spectators and onlookers. Kwele masks are carved and controlled by the Bwete association, which maintains social order within the tribe. The masks represent the spirits of the forest and are used during initiation ceremonies and or at the end of a mourning period to promote tranquility and well-being within the community. Kwele masks act as intermediaries between the world of the bush and that of the village. The masks are typically heart shaped and have both human-like and animal features with the mouth being very close to the chin. The eyes are narrow with wide arched eyebrows and a small pointed triangular nose. Kwele masks are thought to be among the most beautiful of all African masks. Condition is near excellent. Minor scrapes and dings along with some staining and cracking of the kaolin paint, consistent with age. Approx. 18" tall $375

Senufo Seated Figure — Ivory Coast Mid-20th Century Large Senufo seated figure carved from dense (very heavy) hardwood. Nicely carved and of exceptional quality. The male figure is seated on a stool and holding a ceremonial blade. It depicts a person of high status; likely a tribal ruler. He wears a loin cloth and has facial and body scarification. The ears and headdress are pierced for ornamentation. One shell ornament remains intact. The other two holes have only remnants of the original thread. Overall condition is near excellent. A few surface scrapes, but generally choice. A fine example that display dramatically. Just under 25" tall $1500

Fang Figure — Gabon Mid-20th Century A nice Fang figure from the Gabon area of Western Africa. He stands on large feet with hands held to the stomach. A woven fiber waist wrap is secured with iron nails. Nails are also used for the eyes. Condition is good. Both legs have been reattached. Minor insect damage, surface scrapes and erosion consistent with age and exposure to the elements. These types of "Bieri" figures are among the most desirable of all African sculptures. A fine example showing signs of tribal use and aged patina. Approx. 23" tall $850

Yaka - Lula Figure — Congo Mid-20th Century A fine Yaka - Lula fetish bundle from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The standing female wears a skirt and waist wrap of knotted fabric. At her sides are bundles of feathers wrapped with cloth and rattan fiber cords. This type of fetish was used by tribal healers (seers) during shamanic rituals. In near excellent condition. A few vertical age cracks and minor insect damage, else choice. A well carved and exceptional example with obvious signs of tribal use. Approx. 18" tall $1250

Kamba Beaded Stool — Kenya Mid-20th Century A fine Kamba stool from Kenya. Most likely dating to the 1960s. Well carved from a single piece of wood with inlaid glass beads recessed into the seat. Stools of this type were reserved for male elders and were a prestigious display of wealth and respect. Condition is excellent. All of the beads are intact. Signs of wear from tribal use as would be expected and desired. Very minor insect damage. Overall a great, older example. Approx. 9" tall x 8" across $375

Senufo Brass Mask — Cote d'Ivoire - Ivory Coast 20th Century A Senufo metal pendant mask. Cast in brass (or bronze) by the Senufo brass casters guild known as Kpeene, this Kodoli-yehe mask combines elements of Senufo mythology and culturally known symbols. The horns are those of the powerful buffalo important to Poro initiates. The small legs below the chin symbolize the hornbill bird, one of the Senufo primordial creatures and the first to be hunted by men. The shape of the face and protruding lips are well known style elements of Senufo sculpture. Smaller than the full-size masks, but larger than most pendant masks. A great example. Approx. 6.75" tall x 4" across $175

Baule Pendant Mask — Cote d'Ivoire - Ivory Coast 20th Century Small brass-bronze cast pendant mask. This lost wax cast of a copper alloy mask (bronze or brass) comes from the Baule people of the Ivory Coast in west Africa. Brass pendant masks are not normally worn by most Akan peoples. They are often found attached to various chiefly regalia, prominent sword sheaths or chiefly stools. They are said to represent the heads of defeated enemies and are shown with some evidence of local scarification which is rare among the Akan but often shown on terracotta sculptures. The face is shown with a stylized beard, facial scarification and forehead ornamentation. The quality of the features reflect that this was the product of a skilled craftsman. Approx. 3.25" tall x 2" across $125

Ashanti Goldweights — Ghana 20th Century Three exceptional Ashanti - Akan brass-bronze goldweights cast in the lost-wax technique. One depicting a fish, another is two conjoined crocodiles (one is eating a bird) and the other a triangular form with complex geometric designs. Goldweights have been called "masterpieces in miniature" reflecting artistry in service to commerce. Used in trade with European merchants along the Ivory Coast or Islamic traders from the north, gold dust was measured on scales called "nsania" using small sculpted weights known as "abrammo". Most people engaging in trade owned a set of weights ranging in appearance from small geometrically patterned weights to complex figurative and representational designs. Sizes vary from approx. 2.5" across to 4.5" across $125 for the three

Baule Seated Figure — Cote d'Ivoire - Ivory Coast 20th Century Nicely carved Baule figure from the Ivory Coast. Seated on a stool with hands resting on the knees. Beautifully detailed face and hair with body and facial scarification. In fine condition with a few age cracks along the head and body, but overall near choice. An attractive example that displays well. Approx. 17.5" tall x 4.5" across $475

Chamba Drum — Nigeria 20th Century Small two-headed drum from the Chamba tribe of Northern Nigeria. Gently tapered wooden body with animal hide drum-heads on both ends, lashed firmly together with strips of tanned hide. An additional strip of hide serves as a handle. Overall condition is near excellent. Both heads on this drum are intact, tight, strong and playable. The drum-heads are rather small and would have likely been played with the fingers or via sticks. The Chamba people are a small group today living south of the Benue River in Northern Nigeria. This is an area of mixed art and influences. Drums are among the most important art forms in Africa, used both as a musical instrument and as a work of sculpture significant in many ceremonial functions including dance, rituals, story-telling and communication of messages. Approx. 10" tall x 4.5" across $225

Djenne Vessel — Mali 12th - 16th Century Djenne polychrome pottery vessel. Cylindrical form with rolled rim. Carved and painted geometric designs decorate a central band. Reddish slip over orange terracotta with cream and brown paint. Likely served ritual and utilitarian purposes. Possibly employed as a storage vessel for water or milk. Condition is generally very good. Areas of wear and paint loss, consistent with age. Surface erosion mostly on the bottom, minor rim chips, but intact with no breaks, cracks or repairs. Overall a fine and rare example. Djenne, the oldest known city in sub-Saharan Africa is situated on the floodlands of the Niger and Bani rivers, southwest of Timbuktu. Founded by merchants around 800 AD, Djenne flourished as a meeting place for traders from the deserts of Sudan and the tropical forests of Guinea. It developed into Mali's most important trading center from the 12th to the 16th century. The area in and around Djenne was later (and is currently) occupied by the Dogon and Bamana tribes of Mali. Approx. 6.5" tall x 3.5" across $300

African Knives — Democratic Republic of the Congo 20th Century Two fine Congo blades (swords). Likely not made for battle, but are intended for show & ceremonial use. Both are well made examples in near excellent condition. The hilts are firmly attached. Wooden handles have age cracks and the blades have some nicks as would be expected. Custom display stands are included. Knive #1 - An exceptional knife from the Ngombe tribe. Nicely carved wooden hilt. The handle is partially wrapped in brass. The iron blade is engraved with complex designs. 24" long - $275 Knive #2 - A long curved sword from the Kuba Kingdom. The blade is etched with geometric designs. Also has a interesting feature. Engraved on the blade is the name "V. Dunca". Almost certainly the name of a previous owner. 26" long - $225 Priced individually or $450 for the pair.

Tikar Oil Lamp — Cameroon 20th Century Tikar pottery oil lamp from Cameroon. Footed base topped by a globular vessel. Around the upper portion are three seated figures, their arms locked together. They sit surrounding the neck of the vessel; at the top is a small hole to hold the wick. The oil lamp would have been filled through a larger hole on the side. Overall in good condition. Two of the heads have been reattached. The third head, which would have served as the stopper for the fill hole, is missing. A nice example of the type. Approx. 6.5" tall x 4" across $85

Baule Terracotta Oracle — Ivory Coast - Cote D'Ivoire Mid-20th Century Exceptionally rare pottery (terracotta clay) Baule mouse oracle from Cote D'Ivoire, Africa's Ivory Coast. Among the Baule divination plays an important role in determining their day to day activities, solving personal problems, indicating the causes of illness or simply providing comfort to face life's challenges. The Baule would commonly use a mouse to practice divination. A mouse is captured and brought to the diviner (shaman) and placed in the receptacle. The mouse promptly scurries down the small hole to the lower, hidden section of the oracle. The divination process involves food (wheat or other grains) which are placed into the main, upper section within the container. The diviner then places small sticks, bones or strips of brass in a careful arrangement. The diviner then covers the bowl (oracle) and leaves it for several hours. When he returns, the mouse has emerged and eaten the grain and moved the sticks. The diviner can then "read" the rearranged sticks. The Baule believe that mice were once able to speak, and now reveal their knowledge by communicating through the sticks or bones. Mouse divination is probably of Guro origin and is one of several divination techniques used by the Baule. More commonly carved from wood, this example is an extremely rare pottery version. Beautifully decorated with heads typical of the Baule style, raised nodes and incised patterns along with two opposing knob handles. The matching lid, with similar decoration, has been restored. Otherwise in choice condition. Minor imperfections, consistent with age and use. Nice earthen encrustations. Shows signs of significant age and tribal use. Certainly not a tourist piece. Ex. private N.C. collection. Approx. 9" tall x 7" across SOLD

Mahongwe Reliquary — Gabon 20th Century Very large Mahongwe reliquary Bwete (or Bwitti) guardian figure. Mahongwe reliquary figures typically have large oval-shaped tapering heads which are covered by brass bands or wires and are overall highly abstract in style. Figures like these were mounted on or by containers holding relics of important clan ancestors, serving as guardians. They are sometimes danced with by new chiefs and dedicated to Bwitti, the spirit of the ancestors. The Mahongwe are a subgroup of the Bakota, and like them, used these figures as guardians of their ancestors. This example is unusually large, over three feet tall, with small rarely seen stylized arms just below the neck. The upper portion is completey covered front and back in layers of thin hammered brass. The elongated neck is wrapped in rope. An impressive example with a nice aged patina. Displays dramatically! Ex. private N.C. collection. 40" tall x 12" across $750

Igbo "Mmwo" Maiden-Spirit Mask — Nigeria, Africa Early 20th Century, possibly late 19th Century Exceptional example of an Igbo "Mmwo" mask. With a classic style face and soaring tripartite headdress, this large three-quarter type helmet mask shows superior craftsmanship as well as obvious signs of age and tribal use. Finely carved with exquisite detail, the face shows a serene expression. The elaborate hairdo is realistically executed, topped by a soaring superstructure of three large arches. The face is covered in the white pigment "kaolin". Other traces of green and orange pigment remains on the headdress. Generally in excellent condition for its age. A few very minor losses and a single old indigenous (resin type) repair on the left arch of the headdress. Overall among the best example of its type you'll ever see. Truly a museum quality item the likes of which are seldom seen in today's market. The Igbo are a diverse culture, and their art reflect this. The early masks follow general stylistic guidelines, but later masks are found in a variety of sizes, colors, and uses. This particular mask is however a classic example of Igbo artistry. The mask is called "Agbogho Mmwo," or the "beautiful maiden." Topped by elaborate coiffures, these masks are said to represent the beauty and purity of deceased maidens. They were danced at yearly festivals called "Ude Agbogho," the festival of maidens, to honor past, prominent members of the village. The purpose of this annual masquerade, which is performed by males, is to portray the physical and moral attributes of the ideal female. Although the variety of specific details conveyed in Mmwo masks is virtually endless, the general form and artistic style displayed in this mask is faithful to early Igbo tradition. Provenance: Ex. Hal Roach collection. Roach was a well known Hollywood producer and collector of fine, early African artifacts. Remembered for his vast contributions to early film and television production, such as the "Laurel and Hardy" movies and the "Our Gang, Little Rascals" shorts, Roach also worked closely with Walt Disney for many years. Hal Roach died in Nov. 1992. This mask and other pieces from his African art collection were recently sold off by his granddaughter, Mary Ellen. Approx. 21" tall x 9" across $2500

Fon Bocio Figures — Benin, West Africa 20th Century Group of 4 extremely rare, authentic Fon Bocio (Bochio, Boccio) figures. These are also known as VoDun Fetishes (Voodoo Dolls) and are used by practitioners to summon the spirits of Loa in order to conduct evil magic and incite vengeful harm. The figures are carved from wood and have small glass bottles (along with other items) tied to each figure with crude rope and covered with sacrificial fluids. The bottles retain their original contents; things like snake skins, small animal skulls, vegetation, seeds, bones, teeth, shells, powder, soil, feathers, etc. All but the smallest wears a necklace of red glass beads. All have been ritually used and are in fine condition for fetishes of this type. Objects such as these are seldom seen outside of select museums. Ex. Florida private collection. 4", 4.75", 6.25" and 9" tall $2000 for group of four, not sold individually

Songye Mask — Democratic Republic of Congo Early to Mid 20th Century I am pleased to offer this rare and incredible Songye Kifwebe mask. Carved with linear designs and remains of black and white pigment, the mouth is square and protruding. The white color and low ridge crest indicates this mask is "female" in gender. Female masks are primarily white, forms are restrained and elegant with striated surfaces. Their function was to awaken and honor benevolent spirits. Holes for fiber attachments around the edges. The plant-fiber fringe is still attached along the bottom and appears to be completely original. Overall in excellent condition with expected (and very desirable) wear from extensive tribal use. Experienced collectors will appreciate the fine quality and age of this exceptional artifact. With wear patterns and perspiration staining in all the right places, this mask could easily be the centerpiece of any collection. By far the best mask of this type I've ever seen. It doesn't get any better than this. Please ask if you would like to see additional photographs of this superior example. Mask is 16" tall (24" including attachments) x 8.5" across SOLD

Miniature Marka Mask — In & around Mali 20th Century An unusual Marka miniature mask. Possibly a rarely seen example of a Marka passport mask. It is small in size, but retains all the characteristics of the full-sized examples. Nicely executed with overlays of brass and tin attached with small tacks, now rusted. Aged patina with moderate amounts of oxidation on the metal. One horn is chipped, but otherwise in fine condition. The Marka live in Mali, Guinea and Burkina Faso are neighbors of the Bamana. Today they are heavily Islamised, however they often retain the use of masks and figures for ceremonies and rituals closely related to the Bamana. Marka face masks have elongated features, long nose, protruding mouth, and eyes shadowed by a domed forehead decorated with carved horns. The masks, if made of wood, are typically covered with brass repoussee decorated with geometric patterns and red fiber tassels. 11" tall x 3.75" across SOLD

Fly Whisk — DRC Early to Mid - 20th Century Spectacular royal fly whisk from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Beautifully carved hardwood handle depicting a kneeling female. She wears an intricately made collar necklace of aluminum wire. Original, natural horse-hair (?) still intact. The hair is connected to the handle with a decorative copper and aluminum wire wrap. Items of this quality were used only by kings and tribal leaders. Originally collected in the 1950s. Ex. collection of Marilyn Kaytor and Robert Ruark, NYC. Exceptionally rare artifact and in superior condition for its age. Some light oxidation on the copper wire, otherwise choice. Nicely displayed on a custom stand of wood & steel, included. Excellent provenance. Approx. 25" total length SOLD

Baule Mouse Oracle — Ivory Coast Early to Mid - 20th Century A rare, authentic divination receptacle (mouse oracle) from the Baule people of the Ivory Coast, Africa. This is a magnificent, museum quality artifact. Not a tourist item. Beautifully carved, it has a rich patina and shows wear from ceremonial use. Some white pigment remains. Depicted is a seated male shaman figure with hands held to knees, he wears a long beard and elaborate headdress (hairdo). Traditional scarfication adorns the face and torso. Overall in excellent condition with one small (stable) stress crack at the base. No breaks or losses. The lid appears to be original to the piece. This item was purchased by the previous owner at a tribal arts fair in London in the early 1960's. Oracles of this age and quality are seldom seen in todays market. A superb example. A similar oracle with a good explanation of the divination process can be found in the book "Art and Oracle" by Alisa La Gamma. Approx. 15" tall x 8" across SOLD

Guro Bronze Elephant Mask — Ivory Coast Early 20th Century Exceptional Guro cast bronze elephant mask. An unusual example most likely not made by using the common lost wax technique, but rather the much older sand-cast method. Executed with exquisite detail and very heavily cast, this is certainly a museum quality piece, very rare. Purchased by its previous owner in Chicago from the well known "Primitive Art Works" gallery. The original ($1595) PAW price tag is still attached. Generally, in fine condition with a few small areas of green oxidation. Note: Both tusks have been reattached after being broken off during shipping, hence the greatly reduced price. Displays beautifully. Approx. 9.5" tall x 4.5" across $850

Lunda Protective Figure — Zambia-Angola Mid-20th Century, possibly earlier Lunda protective figure from Northwestern Zambia - Eastern Angola. Objects such as this consist of carved figures inserted into gourds or clay pots into which a mixture of clay, vegetable matter and other unknown substances have been hardened. The fact that the figure has "charged" substances (ie. the red seeds) would give this object its protective power. Artifacts of this type were not used in divination rites, but were owned by the diviner as protection against harmful influences during the divination process. Well carved wooden figure with seeds attached with a resin type material. The pot is made from terracotta. Overall in excellent condition. Figure shows a nicely worn patina. Minor chips and dings on the clay pot. An incredible piece with signs of tribal use. Very rare and unique example. 9" tall x 4.25" across SOLD

Fante Figure — Ghana 20th Century Carved wood Fante (Fanti) female figure. With typical elongated square head, she stands with hands held to stomach and carries a child on her back. Nicely carved in fine detail with intricate patterns on the back of the head. Heavily adorned with strands of beads and cowry shells. An unusually large and beautifully executed example. In excellent condition showing no chips, cracks or breaks. Rare & choice. Approx. 25" tall x 6" across $850

Akan Ancestoral Bust — Ghana 20th Century Fine Akan terracotta ancestral head. These well executed heads served as stylized funerary portraits and memorials for the Akan peoples of Ghana. In excellent condition with only minor chips missing from the ears. Reddish clay with some darker areas known as "fire clouding", a result of uneven temperatures in the wood-fired kilns. Displays beautifully. 9" tall x 5.5" across $175

Bura Head Pot — Mali, West Africa 14th Century Rare orange terracotta funerary vessel in the form of a human head. Raised eyes, lips and nose with curved ears. Hair is indicated by a stippled design. Hole in the top of the head as is common. Fine condition with only minor chips missing around base. Approx. 5" x 5" $650

Large Akan Head — Ghana 17th-18th Century Large convex disc shaped ancestoral head in buff-brown terracotta. Broken at the neck with other small chips missing from around the ears. The nose and lips have been reattached. Rare type and unusually large. Seldom seen. Nice example with deposits from burial. Custom display stand is included. Ex. Frank Friedman Collection - Ex. Arte Primitivo. Approx. 12" tall x 9" across $650

Luba "Kifwebe" Mask — Democratic Republic of Congo - DRC 20th Century Older Luba wooden mask. Round face with linear incisions and remains of white paint, squared mouth. Good age with minor losses around the edges. Of the several different mask types used by the Luba, this type of bowl-shaped mask with parallel grooves was worn with a raffia costume and danced in male/female couples representing spirits (kijwebe) which connect this world with the spirit world. Used to mark important periods of social transition and transformation. Nice example with desirable wear and showing signs of tribal use. 9" tall SOLD

Ife Bust — Nigeria Late 20th Century Large gray terracotta female bust. Obviously a modern reproduction modeled after originals found at the great Yoruba center at Ife dating to 1100-1450 A.D. This clay head is of an Oni, the ruler at Ife, who still holds power over the Yoruba people at Ife today. A nice decorative piece in excellent condition. Just over 16" tall $225

Large Terracotta Vessel — Mali 20th Century, possibly earlier Fine reddish clay bottle with bands of decoration around the neck. Nice example, showing signs of tribal usage. Minor chips missing, otherwise choice. Approx. 10" tall x 6" $200

Auction Catalogs - African and Tribal Art

Sotheby's Tribal Art Catalogs — Sotheby's London, June 1987 Sotheby's London, Nov. 1987 Sotheby's NY, Nov. 1987 Sotheby's NY, May 1988 Sotheby's London, July 1988 Sotheby's NY, Nov. 1988 Sotheby's NY, May 1989 Sotheby's NY, Nov. 1989 Sotheby's London, July 1989 Sotheby's London, Mar. 1990 Sotheby's NY, Nov. 1990 Sotheby's London, July 1990 Sotheby's London, June 1991 Sotheby's NY, Nov. 1991 Sotheby's London, Dec. 1992 Sotheby's NY, Nov. 1992 Sotheby's NY, May 1993 Sotheby's NY, May 1994 8.25" x 10.5" SOLD