LSK 1121-2 Kwele Mask, Congo Among masks from the border areas between Congo and Cameroon, the Kwele mask from northeastern Congo (known locally as Bekwyel or Bekwil) reaps high prestige among these anthropo-zoomorphic masks. This Kwele mask has two large horns that encircle and frame a heart-shaped face, on which is engraved a smaller mask … Continue reading Kwele, D.R. Congo
LSK 1121-1 Songye “Horn” Community Power Figure, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Sacred medicines and divine protection are central to the belief of the Kongo peoples (Democratic Republic of Congo). The Kongo believe that the great god, Ne Kongo, brought the first sacred medicine (or nkisi) down from heaven in an earthenware vessel set upon three … Continue reading Songye Figure
LSK 1121-3 Kuba Bwoom Helmet Mask, D.R. Congo One of the three royal Kuba helmet masks, the “Bwoom” mask is the oldest of the mask types used by the Kuba of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is said that this type of mask was introduced in the seventeenth century. The masquerades appear on … Continue reading Kuba, D.R. Congo
LSK 1121-4 Bobo Helmet Mask, Burkina Faso This type of helmet mask, known as ‘Bolo’ (pl. bole), is worn by blacksmiths at important agricultural festivals, initiation rituals and funerals in Bobo communities. In performances, bole functions primarily as entertainment, while other older mask types are considered more sacred and have greater spiritual weight. Bole can … Continue reading Bobo, Burkino Faso
MAK 0322-6 Bembé (Bwende) Ceremonial Spoon, Democratic Republic of the Congo. For dynamism, this Bembé spoon is designed with a fully sculpted handle of a ‘well-equipped’ male figure holding his hands under his chest and with ‘tattoos’ on his stomach. This spoon is intended for magical rituals and forms part of ceremonial actions in Bembe … Continue reading Bembé Spoon
ACK 0621-2 Lobi Tripod stool, Burkina Faso Elongated stool with three feet, ornamented with two typical Lobi heads.Stools of this kind particularly served to sit during the village palavers. They are still currently used. The Lobi people live in the western region of Burkina Faso (formerly Upper Volta) and in Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) … Continue reading Lobi Stool
MAK 1122-11 Djenne ‘Thoughtful’ bronze figure, Mali Among the earliest known examples of art from sub-Saharan Africa are bronze figures like this one from the inland delta of the Niger River, near the current home of the Dogon and Bamana peoples. The figure shows a person seated, with the left arm supporting the raised leg, … Continue reading Djenne Bronze
MAK 1122-1 Djenne bronze anthropomorphic sculpture of a seated bearded man, Mali The Djenne culture of Mali produced some of the most remarkable and unique sculptures ever found from this period, and this bearded gentleman is no exception. Made of beautifully cast bronze, he sits quietly before us, almost majestically with his right hand to … Continue reading Djenne Bronze
NAK 0718-1 Moba ‘Bavong Tchitchiri’ Fetish Protective Figure, Togo. This is a very fine and old ritual object of the cult of the dead, from the Moba tribe of Togo. The Moba, ancestral and protective figure, ‘tchitcheri’, can only be crafted by an individual whose father is a soothsayer. Made of hard wood, these … Continue reading Fetish, Togo
ACK 1220-3 Swazi Headrest, ‘Hho Hho’ Region in Swaziland South Africa This classical head- or neck rest can be identified as Swazi (as opposed to Zulu) by the way the grooves run on the legs. In Zulu items, the fluted grooves run horizontally instead of vertically. For the rest, the headrests of both nations are … Continue reading Swazi Headrest
MCK 1099-2A Beautiful Antique, Primitive West African Wooden Spoon (Guro), Ivory Coast This beautiful, ancient, primitive wooden spoon is considered to have originated from West Africa and most probably from the Guro tribe. It has all the signs of age and diligent use. The simple and sculptural handle could very well have been designed by … Continue reading Guro Spoon
NIK 0106-22 Dogon Tellem Equestrian Figure, Bandiagara region, Mali This figure contains many symbolic messages. The horse, the rider and the outstretched arms partly symbolize the exalted status of the rider. However, the outstretched arms high above the head are a gesture seen everywhere in Dogon art where the most common interpretation is a prayer … Continue reading Dogon Tellem
ROS 1102-11 Rare Ibo (Igbo) Helmet Mask, Nigeria. This rare Ibo Helmet Mask originates from the northeastern part of Nigeria. The mask consists of a conical shape decorated with horizontal ‘pins’ that protrude on each side of the illustrative hair which is gathered in a ‘knot’ at the top of the figure. The face features … Continue reading Ibo Helmet Mask
CRK 0518-1 DAN/BASSA PASSPORT MASK, LIBERIA This very rare and fine passport mask of oval form with tapering facial plane ending in a pointed chin, pierced almond shaped eyes below a slightly overhanging forehead below an intricately carved coiffure; fine dark brown glossy patina belongs to the category of ‘Miniature Masks’, often called … Continue reading Dan Mask
MSK 0720-2 Sao Sokoto Bronze “Flask-Container”, Cameroon. This beautiful and mysterious ‘container’ originates from the Sao Sokoto people of Cameroon and has been used to store ‘valuables’ in the family. The bottle is supported and guarded by two women and two men and the bottle ‘plug’ is shaped like a typical Sao person with its … Continue reading Sao Sokoto
LCK 0702-27C Baule Comb, Ivory Coast This fine antique comb is derived from the Baule tribe of Côte d’Ivoire. These combs have multiple purposes. Partly they are used to style hair. It is also used as a decorative addition to both men and women. Women especially demonstrate by placing the comb in the hair that … Continue reading Baoulé Comb
LCK 0702-27D Baule Comb, Ivory Coast This fine antique comb is derived from the Baule tribe of Côte d’Ivoire. These combs have multiple purposes. Partly they are used to style hair. It is also used as a decorative addition to both men and women. Women especially demonstrate by placing the comb in the hair that … Continue reading Baoulé Comb
CRK 02017-1 Tribal Bronze Hoe, Cameroun A rare brass / bronze hoe with fine decorations and symbolic ornaments which indicate that it is from the savannas of the west, the Grassland in Cameroun. Age: Est. first half of 20th century. Measure: H: 29, W: 10, D: 17 cm – weight: 850 grams. Condition: This Hoe appears … Continue reading Bronze Hoe
SNK 1212-65 Senufo Brass Kpeliyee Mask, Burkina Faso/Ivory Coast. This kpeliyee mask from the Senufo people in Ivory Coast is shown in a symbolically detailed and artistically designed face. The face is refined and well designed with curved eyebrows, a long nose, and an open mouth with defined teeth. It is an unusual example of … Continue reading Senufo Mask
HCK 1220-1 Guro Antelope mask, Ivory Coast Beautiful handcrafted African Guro masks that originates from the west coast of Africa and more specifically from Ivory Coast. The Guro tribe or Gouro tribe as they are sometimes pronounced are very spiritual people and their masks are all representations of their way of live and spiritual way … Continue reading Guro Mask
OAK 0920-2 Gelede Mask, Yoruba, Nigeria This remarkably colorful and sculptural Gelede wooden headdress which originates from the Yoruba people is carved of a single piece of wood. It is carved with classical Yoruba facial features: heavy eyelids, bulgy almond-shaped eyes, a flared nose and compressed full lips. The pupils and nostrils are roughly pierced … Continue reading Gelede Yoruba
OAK 0920-1 Gelede Polycrome Wooden Mask, Yoruba, Nigeria This dramatic, colorful, sculpturally painted, and genuine Gelede headgear originates from the Yoruba people, and is carved from a single piece of wood. It is cut with classic Yoruba facial features: heavy eyelids, bulgy almond-shaped eyes, the classic wide nose and compressed full lips. The pupils … Continue reading Gelede Yoruba
CMK 0406-09 Royal Ife Bronze Head, Yoruba, Nigeria. This impressive bronze Ife head is a demonstration of a sophisticated sculpture culture found among the Yoruba people of Ife in Nigeria and depicts a royal figure of Ile-Ife’s heraldic branch of the royal family. Probably from the Yoruba Oyo royal family, part of the Bini royal … Continue reading Ife Bronze
CMK 0406-8 Ife Bronze Head of a Ruler, Yoruba, Nigeria. This magnificent bronze head is strikingly very similar to that of the bronze head displayed in the British Museum in London which imagines Ife Head of a Ooni Ruler (Nigeria 1400-1500 CE). History tells that this royal head from Ife (Ile-Ife) acted as effective symbolic … Continue reading Ife Bronze
CMK 0307-03a Benin Bronze Leopard Head, Benin, Nigeria The Benin people of Nigeria believe that the Benin leopard is a symbol of justice as well as a strong animal that has royal qualities. And just as the Leopard is believed to rule over Savannah, so the King of Oba wants to be compared to … Continue reading Benin Bronze
ANK 0517-10 Ife bronze ‘Janus bronze sculpture’ shaped like a vase, Yoruba, Nigeria This beautifully decorated ‘Janus bronze sculpture’ shaped like a vase depicts the faces of two beautiful young girls. Their hair is neatly arranged in many small braids and headbands. This unusually and stunningly beautiful bronze sculpture originates from the small West African … Continue reading Ife Bronze
ANK 0517-12 Ife Bronze Head of Young Girl, Yoruba, Nigeria This rare and delicately molded miniature bronze head depicting a beautiful young girl’s face. Her hair is neatly arranged in many small braids and a larger headband. This unusual and stunningly beautiful little bronze head originates from the small West African kingdom of Ife which … Continue reading Ife Bronze
ANK 0517-13 Ife Bronze Male Head, Yoruba, Nigeria This rare and unusual small bronze head with a stunning personal expression originates from the small West African kingdom of Ife, which was founded in the 13th century deep in the West African rainforests and belongs to Yoruba who is still the largest people in Nigeria … Continue reading Ife Head
CMK 0406-2 Benin Bronze Plaque, Nigeria. This type of Benin-bronze plates which display a high rank person guarded by two guards, in its time consisted of several thousand plates that lined and decorated the royal palace in the kingdom of Benin, which is now present-day Nigeria. Royal Benin Bronze Plaques lake this can be … Continue reading Bronze Plaque
Small Benin Bronze Leopard. This small but expressive bronze leopard created using the Lost-wax process, also called cire-perdue, method of metal casting in which a molten metal is poured into a mold that has been created by means of a wax model. These bronze leopards have partly been ornaments of the court but also used … Continue reading Bronze Leopards
ANK 0517-11 Ife Bronze Head of a Royal Person, Yoruba, Nigeria. This beautiful and very rare, proportionate small but powerful Ife bronze head with an advanced, bearded chin and a solemn expression imagines a prince of the Ife kingdom. Which portrait filled its place in the row among the ‘royal portraits of the royal palace’. … Continue reading Ife Bronze
ANK 0517-9 Ife Bronze Head of a Royal Person, Yoruba, Nigeria. This unusual and stunningly beautiful little bronze head originates from the small West African kingdom of Ife which originated in the 13th century deep in the West African rainforests and belongs to Yoruba which is still the largest people in Nigeria (not to … Continue reading Ife Bronze
VRK 0217-1 Benin Dwarf “Court Jester”, bronze, Edo People, Nigeria Dwarfs have a very specific role at the court of Oba in Benin. They functioned as court jesters in Benin since the 15th century. Their responsibilities go beyond amusement to include the care of certain shrines, overseeing activities in the market, gathering information for the … Continue reading Benin Bronze
CRK 0512-1 Benin Style Bronze Head displaying Queen Idia, Mother of Oba Esigie, Nigeria This bronze commemorative heads were once placed on altars are dedicated to past Iyobas (queen mothers). The most distinctive feature of this head is the marvelous high, forward-pointing headdress, which is a version of the elaborate coiffure known as “chicken-beak” worn … Continue reading Bronze QUEEN
CMK 0307-03c Benin Bronze Leopard Head, Benin, Nigeria This dramatic and at the same time beautiful bronze leopard head is a royal icon and were often used as royal water vessels. Water was poured from the mouth over the Oba’s hands in cleansing rituals. Or they were kept on royal altars. TheBeninKingdomwasstrongthroughoutthe15thand16thCenturiesandwaslocatedinWestAfricaborderingwhatisnowNigeriaandTogo.BeninClanswereruledbyaKing,whowasknownastheObaandwhowasthedivineruleroftheBeninpeople.ThepeopleofBeninarecalledBiniandaredescendedfromtheIfepeoples.ThemakingsoftheseBeninbronzeswerestrictlyconsideredcourtartandweremadeexclusivelyforthepalaceoftheObaandweredesignedtoveneratetheachievementsandmemoriesoftheObasandtheirQueensalsocalledIyobasorQueenMotherswhoruledthroughoutthetimeofthekingdom. The bronze founders … Continue reading Bronze Leopard
ANK 0517-3 Ife Royal Odududwa Bronze Head, Nigeria This Ife bronze head from the Yoruba people of western Nigeria is an excellent example of their handiwork. The Yoruba reached their artistic pinnacle between 1100 – 13oo AD. This bronze cast represents Odududwa, who is said to be the progenitor of the Yoruba people. The head … Continue reading Bronze Head
CWK 0119-3 Couple of Royal Dwarfs, “Court Jester” Bronze – Ife Edo Benin (Bini), Benin, Nigeria. This is a couple of dwarfs who lived and acted as court jester at the Royal Ogiso court in the former Benin, now part of Nigeria. Court jester, or “fool”, was historically an entertainer at the Royal court. … Continue reading Benin Bronze
LCC 1116-3 Benin Royal Equestrian Bronze Figure, Nigeria Lack of written records from many lost African kingdoms makes it difficult to identify the exact meaning of a work; in this case, the true identity of the bronze mule and rider. The figure, which may represent a defeated king or warrior from another culture, could … Continue reading Bronze Equestrian
HMK 0620-1 Benin Leopard Bronze Pair, Nigeria The Benin Kingdom was strong throughout the 15th and 16th Centuries and was located in West Africa bordering what is now Nigeria and Togo. Benin Clans were ruled by a King which was known as the Oba and who was the divine ruler of the Benin people. … Continue reading Benin Bronze
LCK 1015-9 U-Shaped Relief Plaque with Oba and Attendant, Ife, Benin, Nigeria The focal point of this unusual U-shaped relief is an Oba (king of Benin) supported by two attendants, or enobore. Presumably, the elongation of the Oba’s legs in the form of hingemouth fish (cf. Fagg, 1963) is meant to emphasize his divinity, for … Continue reading Bronze Relief
LCK 0604-20 Pair of Benin Bronze Royal Leopard, Nigeria These two exceptionally beautiful seated male leopards have probably been placed as guards at the Royal Palace as an emphasis on both its own exalted positions and responsibilities. In African culture the leopard is traditionally known as the Great Watcher, and is a symbol for … Continue reading Bronze Leopards
PEC 0104-1 Kongo-Yombe ‘nkisi n’kondi’ Nail Power Figure, Dem. Repub. of the Congo. Kongo’s sacred sculpture called ‘nkisi’ (plurl. minkisi) is an unusual indigenous specimen among the most powerful and refined of all Sub-Saharan art forms. Mkisi rank among the iconic genres of African art and belongs to the most ambitious class of this tradition attributed to the studio by … Continue reading Fétich à clous
HCK 0416-5 Songye (Kifwebe) ‘nkisi’ Power Figure, Zaïre (now D.R. Congo). This impressive male fetish figure originates from the Songye, in the southern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The piece features a horn on top of the head and this statuette was intended to heal, protect, bring good luck fertility. A masterpiece … Continue reading Songye Figure
HCK 0416-3 Mbole ‘okifa’ Figure, Zaïre (DR Congo) This male figure with leaning / hanging shoulders, sunken face and concave torso is a ‘classic’ example of an ‘okifa figure’ presenting a man from Lilwa-Bund in the Mbole community waiting to be hanged. The present figure, made of hardwood and colored red and white (in African … Continue reading Mbole Figure
ACK 0619-3 Baoulé Maternity figurine, Côte d’Ivoire A magnificent and very beautiful, blue colored maternity figurine of the ‘asie usu or blolo bla’ type is of the Baoulé tribe which are part of an Akan people established in the Centre of Ivory Coast, in West Africa. This beautiful shiny blueish patina with voluminous fine grooved … Continue reading Baoulé
HCK 0608-5 Lega Bwami Maskette (Lukungu), Democratic Republic Of Congo In the forests of the Democratic Republic of the Congo art is created primarily for semisecret associations of men and women, such as the Bwami society of the Lega peoples. The teachings of Bwami permeate all aspects of life, guiding the moral development of the … Continue reading Lega Maskette
HCK 1204-23 Lega Style Bwami Maskette, Democratic Republic of Congo This highly stylized mask. Nearly ‘modern’ in its simplified and simple terms has been used in ceremonies in honor of historical figures in the Bwami society of the Lega peoples. The teachings of Bwami permeate all aspects of life, guiding the moral development of the … Continue reading Lega Maskette
ERK 0699-3 Luba/Hemba Caryatid Stool, Dem. Rep. Congo. This powerful figure, supporting a stool, was probably introduced in the 19th-century Songye art of nearby Luba. This is one of a small group of stylistically similar stools with a muscular female figure with scattered solid footprints, short muscular legs, and perpendicular arms and hands carrying … Continue reading Luba Stool
NAK 1118-4 Male Bronze-Stone Figure, Dogon, Mali This antique male figure of bronze encloses a round stone. The figure represents most likely an ancestor or equally a Nommo, one of the eight Dogon primordial figures created by God. Dogon bronze figures like this were placed on a family altar or kept in the village priest’s shrine … Continue reading Dogon Bronze
JLK 1007-17 Dogon “Nommo” Pair, Mali This beautifully balanced ‘Nommo sculpture’ of a harmonious couple. Carved from hardwood in the strict, clear, angular and abstract ‘bombou-toro style’. With round ears, almost arrow-shaped, long noses, slit eyes, wide-mouthed lips, slightly bent knees. The man gently holds his left arm behind the woman’s back and the hand … Continue reading Dogon Couple
ACK 0719-1 Luba-Shankadi Headrest, Zaïre (now Dem. Rep. Congo). This splendid ancient “Luba-Shankadi Headrest” is a remarkable work, done with special attention to details where you can observe the refinement of the elements and richness of the details carved by the artist. This piece presents the aesthetic canons, characteristic of the Shankadi style, which most … Continue reading Luba Headrest
ACK 1219-1 Baule Blolo Bla Figure, Côte d’Ivoire Baule This beautiful artistic and delicately carved figure in hard dark wood has belonged to a young Baule man who has described to the cutter how his upcoming bride who lives in the “otherworld” looks. The figure he will place in his home where he eats and … Continue reading Baulé Figure
ACK 0619-1 Dinka ‘tree-legged’ Headrest, Sudan. This elegant three-legged headrest, with its charming and simple design, is a well-known example of the arts, which represents many of the items that Dinka Lotuko people of South Sudan surrounds himself with. It expresses both tradition and artistic design and contains everything that characterizes Dinka people and … Continue reading Dinka Headrest
BRK 1119-3 Appui-nuque Guragé Sebatbét Headrest, Ethiopia This fine and rare Ethiopian Headrest originates from the Guragé tribe that lives in a semi-mountainous region in southwest Ethiopia, about 125 kilometers southwest of Addis Ababa, bordering the Awash River in the north, the Gibe River (a tributary of the Omo River) to the southwest, and Lake Zway in the east. For Ethiopian … Continue reading Guragé Headrest
ANK 1219-3 Lega ’Kalukili’ Ivory Spoon, Dem. Rep. Congo. This antique, elegant and almost gracefully crafted spoon is carved from elephant (loxodonta africana) ivory and evokes the stylized “Kalukili” character. It has a beautiful patina and it shows signs of age, wear, and natural abrasion. This striking ivory spoon, supported by a finely crafted handle … Continue reading Lega Spoon
ANK 1219-1 Yoruba Ibeji Twin Pair, Nigeria This well carved pair of Yoruba Ibeji twin figures appear with a beautiful glow that will adorn in any African collection. Among the Yoruba people twins are regarded as something special. They have their own god, ‘Ere Ibeji’, are honoured in a separate cult and are considered … Continue reading Ibeji Twins
HCK 0619-1 SOLD Dan Ceremonial ‘wake mia’ Spoon with Carved Dual ‘Janus’ Face, Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire. This beautiful wooden spoon decorated with two female faces on handle derives from the artists in Dan communities of the Guinea coast who have mastered the art of carving impressive, large wooden spoons that are virtuoso works of … Continue reading Dan Spoon
LUK 1103-21 Makonde Female ‘Ndimu’ Body Mask, Tanzania. This original and authentic body mask originates from the Makonde people of southern Tanzania (then German East Africa) and shows a female body mask, called ‘Ndimu’, which depicts a young, pregnant woman. The dancer uses it to represent a woman’s painful childbirth. The present ‘Ndimu’ body mask … Continue reading Body Mask
MZK 9702-AA Makonde Female ‘Ndimu’ Body Mask, Tanzania. This original and authentic body mask originates from the Makonde people of southern Tanzania and shows a female body mask, called ‘Ndimu’, which depicts a young, pregnant woman. The dancer uses it to represent a woman’s painful childbirth. The present ‘Ndimu’ body mask is carved in dark … Continue reading Body Mask
CWK 0219-14B Adan Aklama Ewe Fetishes Figure, Ghana This anthromorphic sculpture is Ewe/Dangme alter fetish voodoo related from Southern part of Ghana, but according of the last owner collected in the North of Ghana close to the Lobi-Wala, Wa region, similar like the PramPram, influenced by the Moba, the migration of ethnic groups, which are well … Continue reading Adan Fetish
CWK 0219-14D Adan Aklama Ewe Fetishes Figure, Ghana This anthromorphic sculpture is Ewe/Dangme alter fetish voodoo related from Southern part of Ghana, but according of the last owner collected in the North of Ghana close to the Lobi-Wala, Wa region, similar like the PramPram, influenced by the Moba, the migration of ethnic groups, which are well … Continue reading Adan Fetish
CWK 0219-14C Adan Aklama Ewe Fetishes Figure, Ghana This anthromorphic sculpture is Ewe/Dangme alter fetish voodoo related from Southern part of Ghana, but according of the last owner collected in the North of Ghana close to the Lobi-Wala, Wa region, similar like the PramPram, influenced by the Moba, the migration of ethnic groups, which are well … Continue reading Adan Fetish
CWK 0219-14A Adan Aklama Ewe Fetishes Figure, Ghana This anthromorphic sculpture is Ewe/Dangme alter fetish voodoo related from Southern part of Ghana, but according of the last owner collected in the North of Ghana close to the Lobi-Wala, Wa region, similar like the PramPram, influenced by the Moba, the migration of ethnic groups, which are well … Continue reading Adan Fetish
CWK 0219-14 (a-b-c-d-e) SOLD Adan Aklama Ewe Fetishes Figure, Ghana This anthromorphic sculpture is Ewe/Dangme alter fetish voodoo related from Southern part of Ghana, but according of the last owner collected in the North of Ghana close to the Lobi-Wala, Wa region, similar like the PramPram, influenced by the Moba, the migration of ethnic groups, which … Continue reading Fetishes Figures
HCK 1217-1 Dogon Bronze Pair, Mali This 19th Century, beautiful Dogon-wedding couple is made of bronze and cast in the extremely time-consuming lost wax process*). The Dogon have a highly sophisticated artisan tradition of art and is primarily mirror-images, aproned figures, and standing sculpture. Dogon art revolves around religious values, ideals, and freedoms. Dogon sculptures … Continue reading Dogon Bronze
ACK 0219-11 Sumba Ancestor statue, Indonesia Sumba lies in the midst of Nusa Tenggara Timor, also known as the Eastern Lesser Sunda Islands. Once known as ‘Sandal wood Island’. The Sumba (or Sumbese) people have been able to retain much of their culture despite foreign influences that arrived long ago on the East Nusa Tenggara … Continue reading Sumba Figure
CWK 0119-4 Adu Nuwu Ancestor figure, Nias, Indonesia This finely carved, seated, serious male figure in light brown wood is a typical ‘Adu Nuwu Ancestor Figure’. His fine beard, the finely inlaid carved, bright eyes made of bone and the neatly folded headscarf make up a fantastic whole. In his hands he holds the religious … Continue reading Adu Figure
CWK 0619-1 Dinka Lotuko Headrest, South Sudan. This charming, elegant three-legged headrest is via its simple design a well-known example of the arts of the Dinka Lotuku people of South Sudan. The Lotuka people live in settlements. There are sixteen known such villages of which Iliu, Hiyala, Lobira, etc. are the most important in terms … Continue reading Dinka Headrest
HCK 0518-1 “Sleeping Beauty” Headrest, Tanzania In 2012 the Fowler Museum at UCLA hosted the exhibition Sleeping Beauties: Headrests from many parts of central, western, and southern Africa. Headrests carved by their owners while others were exquisitely crafted by professional carvers. These headrests often supported elaborate coiffures that were far too complex and time consuming … Continue reading Sleeping Beauty
ANK 0517-100 São bronze male figure, Chad This charming bronze male figure derives from the almost forgotten São culture. With his small cap on the head, a thoughtful expression with both hands supporting the cheeks and furious big feet, this little male figure radiates with charm. The figure was found by archaeologists in a funerary … Continue reading São Bronze
ANK 0517-99 São bronze male figure, Chad (Tchad). This little, charming, bronze, male figure is from the almost forgotten Sâo culture. It was found by archaeologists in a funerary urn together with the deceased’s personal property. During the 20th century, archaeologists found several thousand urns in an area near the Chari River, or Shari River, … Continue reading São Bronze
NAK 0619-1 SOLD Djenne Bronze Anthropomorphic Sculpture of a Seated Woman, Mali The Djenne culture has produced some of the most remarkable and unique pieces of sculpture ever found from this period, and this lady is no exception. Crafted out of beautifully well-molded bronze, she sits before us, calmly and peacefully almost majestic. However, traditionally, she … Continue reading Djenne Bronze
NAK 0619-2 Chokwe Ivory Sculpture of a Tshibinda Ilunga, Southwestern Congo/Angola/Zambia This remarkable ivory sculpture designed as a flute and worn as a pendant was made in Angola by the Chokwe group and is in exceptionally good condition. It is a standing male figure with powerful tattoo over abdomen, a very highly patinated surface and … Continue reading Ivory Sculpture
NAK 0619-3 Anthropomorphic Ivory Amulet Mask “Ikoko”, Pende, Dem. Rep. of Congo. This fine, old ‘Ikoko’ ivory pendant figure has a beautiful yellowish patina due to age. Stylistically it is cut as a ‘Mbuya’ chief’s mask with traditional hairstyle with three jags, closed eyes with hanging eyelids, ornamented headband and with holes for suspension. Among … Continue reading Ivory Mask
NAK 0619-6 São Grave Bronze Figure, Cameroon This small, green patinated bronze male figure was found in a burial ground in Wandala during an excavation in 1963. Archaeologists have discovered bronze, pottery and ornaments made by the São people whose civilization flourished south of Lake Chad from the sixth-century BC to the sixteenth century. Over … Continue reading São Grave Bronze
NAK 0619-5 São Grave Bronze Figure, Cameroon This miniature patinated bronze male figure was found in a burial ground in Wandala during an excavation in 1963. Archaeologists have discovered bronze, pottery and ornaments made by the São people whose civilization flourished south of Lake Chad from the sixth-century BC to the sixteenth century. Over fifteen … Continue reading São Grave Bronze
NAK 0619-4 São Grave Bronze Figure, Cameroon This miniature patinated bronze male figure was found in a burial ground in Wandala during an excavation in 1963. Archaeologists have discovered bronze, pottery and ornaments made by the São people whose civilization flourished south of Lake Chad from the sixth-century BC to the sixteenth century. Over fifteen … Continue reading São Grave Bronze
NAK 0619-7 São Grave Bronze Equestrian Figure, Cameroon This miniature patinated bronze equestrian figure was found in a burial ground in Wandala during an excavation in 1963. Note especially the horse’s head, which does not resemble a “horse’s head”, but more like a “dinosaur”, referring to the petrified dinosaur found more than 2000 years ago … Continue reading São Equestrian
AVK 0319-2 Youruba Gelede Mask, Nigeria This is a remarkable and well carved Gelede mask from the people of Yoruba in Southwestern Nigeria. It is designed and painted along traditional lines, such as a helmet mask with high coiffure and a naturalistic human face. However, the face is exceptionally calm and well modeled with very … Continue reading Youruba Mask
AVK 0319-3 SOLD Baule Guru Portrait Mask, Côte d’Ivoire This is a distinctive and rare Baule Guru mask. Not only is this mask characterized by a mystery and grace, but also carved in an unusual way. The graceful face that is painted over several stages and with age are parts of the paint peeled off, … Continue reading Baule Guru Mask
NAK 1218-1 Antique Bamana Boli, Mali This fine and exquisitely preserved zoomorphic four-legged ritual object, called a Boli (pl. boliw), once played a central role in the ritual life of a Bamana village. Such power objects were owned by male initiation associations whose members progress through induction processes that span decades. Over time, they attain … Continue reading Antique Boli, Mali
VKK 1112-6 Bakuba King, Hippopotamus Ivory Figure, Congo. This is a unique, classic representation of a Kuba king, also named Ndop carved in hippopotamus-tusk. Most probably Kuba King Miko miKyeen [Mikope Kena] (1901 – 1902) in his artistic and ritual traditional regalia. A ndop is made whenever a new king is invested with office; it … Continue reading Bakuba Ivory King
Bakuba King, Hippotamus Ivory Figure, Congo VKK 1112-5 This is a unique, classic representation of a Kuba king, also named Ndop carved in hippopotamus tusk. Most probably Kuba King Kok Mabiintsh III in his ritual traditional regalia (1902 – 1916). A ndop is made when a new king is invested with office; it is supposed … Continue reading Ivory Bakuba King
JLC 1118-5 Fante Akuba Shrine Figure, Ghana White tin plated H: 33, W: 7,5, D: 5 cm Weight: 650 grams
ANK 0517-37 Kotoko Bronze Horse Riders, Cameroon / Chad (Tchad) This fine, small abstracted bronze figure formed as a ‘horse’ with two riders found near the Lake Chad basin, along the Logone and Chan rivers has been used by the people of Kotoko as a talisman to protect against illness. Particularity against mental illness. The … Continue reading Kotoko Figure
ANK 0517-16 Kotoko Equestrian, bronze figure, Chad (from Lake Chad – Nigeria, Cameroun and Chad). This São/Kotoko Equestrian bronze figure displays two horse riders, which was found in 1950 near the city of N. Djamena, south of Lake Chad near the Cameroon border. The horse and rider motif is featuring exceptional stylistic versatility and strong … Continue reading Kotoko Bronze
HCK 1204-25 Igbo, Agbogho mmwo helmet mask, Nigeria This exceptional mask has been used by the male Mmwo secret society, agbogho mmwo. Helmet masks (also called agbogho monnwu or ikorodo meaning ‘maiden spirit mask’) are used during annual ‘fame of maidens’ ceremonies to honour ancestors and the ideal characteristics of young women. Found in Northern Igboland (around the cities of … Continue reading Igbo Mask
HMC 0818-8 Ibo (Igbo) female ‘Alusi’ figure, Nigeria This fine and characteristic female shrine figure or ‘divine’ being named ‘Alusi’, is carved in the classic ‘round’ style of the Ibo. The figure bears a typical coiffure as well as characteristic scarification marks on her chest and abdomen around the accentuated navel. There are still fine … Continue reading Igbo Figure
JDK 0219-1 Nepali Tibetan Shamans Mask, Tibet This antique Shamans Mask is made of bamboo-root collected from the Himalayan region. The ritual of wearing masks comes from animists Himalayan tribes used to worship spirits of nature and guardians of the grand mountains. The Shamans of these tribes used to wear masks during ritualistic performances in … Continue reading Tibetan Mask
NAK 0617-2 SOLD Djenne Bronze Anthropomorphic Sculpture of a Seated Woman, Mali The Djenne culture has produced some of the most remarkable and unique pieces of sculpture ever found from this period, and this lady is no exception. Crafted out of beautifully well-molded bronze, she sits before us calmly and peacefully, almost majestic. However, traditionally, … Continue reading Djenne Bronze
LCK 1116-2 Dinka Stool, Sudan This wooden stool is a characteristic example of an everyday object of the Dinka people, the design being simultaneously inviting and exclusive. The entire carving consists of a single piece of hardwood with neatly carved patterns (also known from the Dinka tribe’s jewelry). This chair is a very personal and … Continue reading Dinka Stool
CWK 0119-10 Karamojong headrest, Uganda A wonderful almost elegant headrest from the Karamojong people of Uganda in Eastern Africa. Headrests are used by many nomadic people of Eastern Africa while resting or sleeping. It is popularly believed that the headrest serves a protective function by elevating the head off the ground during sleep, thereby preventing … Continue reading Uganda Headrest
CWK 0119-7 Zulu Headrest Isigqiki style, Swazi, Swaziland This elegant Swazi headrest is similar in style to the appearance of the Zulu headrest. Swazi headrests are usually 2 legs on either end that are commonly darker than the cross bar they support. The crossbar usually contains a lug pendant found in the center of the … Continue reading Zulu Headrest
CWK 0119-8 Lega Bwami Tricephalous-face mask, Zaïre ( now Dem. Rep. Congo) Lega masks are usually carved in light-coloured, lightweight wood, with typical heart-shaped Lega concave faces, coffee bean eyes, long narrow noses and small mouths in a distinctive style with a slightly protruding forehead and, as this one, adorned with a fibre beard … Continue reading Lega Bwami Face
CWK 0319-1 Bwami, Lega Hunting Fetish Figure, Dem. Rep. Congo This fine antique multi-headed and multi-faced figure with four times three-faces occurs very infrequently amongst the Lega in eastern Congo. These statues have special meaning as they belong to a ‘hunting charm’ that the priests of the Lega community and its ‘Bwami’ league carried out. … Continue reading Lega Hunting
CWK 0219-13 Songye Nkishi Personal Power Figure, Zaïre (now Dem. Rep. Congo) This “Nkishi” portrays a visual power that Songye sculptures are known for, as well as a sense of purposeful intention for which it may have been carved. For the Songye, figures such as this were carved for an individual, or a family, … Continue reading Songye Figure
CWK 0119-9 Bwami mask, Lega, Democratic Republic of the Congo This is an unusual, utilised and well carved Bwami mask, Lega created in a light type of wood in a distinctive style, with a heart-shaped concave face, slightly protruding forehead, a narrow nose and fine attached beard. The faces of these type of masks are … Continue reading Bwami Mask, Lega
CWK 0119-1 Lega Ivory Figure, Zaïre (now Dem. Rep. Congo) This Iginga ivory male statue, with arms at his side, splayed legs and heart shaped face in fine glossy golden dark honey colored patina is a perfect and individual property of the initiated association Bwami. Some of these anthropomorphic figures are also called ‘kalimbangoma’. Each … Continue reading Lega Ivory Figure
CWK 0119-2 Lega Ivory Figure, Zaïre (now Dem. Rep. Congo). This magnificent antique Iginga ivory male statue, with arms at his side, splayed legs and heart shaped face in glossy golden dark honey colored patina, is a perfect and individual property of the initiated association Bwami. Some of these anthropomorphic figures are also called ‘kalimbangoma’. … Continue reading Lega Ivory Figure
HCK 0617-1 Baule, Goli, kplekple mask, Ivory Coast This is a well-carved authentic mask, called kple kple which is a specific type of mask made by the Baule people. Common features of the kple kple disc shaped facemasks include antelope shaped horns, round eyes, rectangular shaped mouth and geometric designs. The red face is considered … Continue reading Goli Mask
JLC 0318-10 Dogon Bronze Vessel This unusual and artistically shaped figure depicts a container symbolized with a rider on the lid and carried by a horse derived from Dogon tribe in Mali. The lid of the presented piece is provided with a scene and characters. The dignitary, of an important size, is sitting high and … Continue reading Dogon Vessel
HCK 0416-2 Yaka Janus Magical Fetish Figure, Zaïre (D.R. Congo) This fetish figure (as called in older literature) or power figure, is attributed to the Yaka people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This figure would generally be used by diviners in the healing and protection rituals performed by them. They were however used by … Continue reading Yaka Figure
HCK 0117-2 Snake Debira’ Pendant from the Gan people of Burkina Faso This fine bronze pendant represents a double snake with human upper body. It is the central theme in the art of metal in Gan society and is used as protectors of the individual, the family and their culture. Snakes are ambivalent creatures, representing … Continue reading Snake Pendant
HCK 1217-2 Senufo Horse Riding Warrior, Bronze Figure, Mali or Burkina Faso. This is an unusually rare and ancient bronze equestrian representation from the Senufo tribe in Mali/Burkina Faso, consisting of two riders with exceptionally large ears. Even the horse has the same characteristic big ears. The big ears demonstrate that both riders and horse … Continue reading Senufo Bronze
NAK 0518-1 SOLD Zoomorphic dyadyomini ‘Fox’ mask, Dogon, Mali. This zoomorphic dyadyomini ‘Fox’ mask originates from the Dogon people of Eastern Mali and represent one of the 80 masks types of the tribe. It is an old carved dark-brown-colored wood mask, with ‘fox ears’, deep-set, square eyes and narrow nose. Mouth and chin are long … Continue reading ‘Fox’ mask
NAK 0118-2 Kotoko, Bronze Talisman, Tchad, Cameroon, Nigeria This mysterious figure is a pendant called ‘Putchu Guinadji’ meaning jumper against madness. The function of this leather wrapped bronze figure is to protect the wearer from an act of witchcraft that can lead to abnormal behavior or possession of spirits. The form of … Continue reading Kotoko Talisman
NAK 1015-26 Dogon Djenne bronze figure, Mali This miniature bronze sculpture derives from the Dogon Peoples from the town of Djenne, Mali at the Upper Niger River. It shows a male figure holding a calabash with water in his hands. This early sculpture from ca. 14th to 15th Century shows the correct ware and patina … Continue reading Dogon Figure
NAK 1015-27 Dogon Djenne bronze figure, Mali This miniature bronze sculpture derives from the Dogon Peoples from the town of Djenne, Mali at the Upper Niger River. It shows a male figure holding a calabash with water in his hands and a milk container on his back. This early sculpture from ca. 14th to 15th … Continue reading Dogon Figure
IHK 0917-6 a Miniature Dogon wood Fetish figure, Mali This statuette belongs to a group of small figurines called healing fetishes which are thought to give substance to invisible spiritual intermediaries. Carved by Dogon priests these figures can be invoked for aid but will die if neglected. Other intermediaries range from simple officiants at family altars to prophets, sacred … Continue reading Dogon Fetish
IHK 0917-5 Dogon Bronze Male Figurine Ornament, Mali This smooth uncoated bronze figurine depicting a kneeling male figure with long slim sinuous limbs is presented here holding his hands around both feet, arched back and a bearded face looking straight ahead. A gesture which has been open for interpretation but is most commonly accepted … Continue reading Dogon Figurine
IHK 0917-4 Dogon Bronze Female Figurine Ornament, Mali This is a smooth uncoated bronze figurine depicting a kneeling female figure with long slim sinuous limbs and a braided hairstyle on top of her head. Her body posture shows the figure holding her hands around both feet, arched back and a face looking straight ahead – … Continue reading Dogon Figurine
IHK 0917-2 Senufo (or Tussian) Figurine Ornament, Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso This ‘Three-person’ divine pendent is a lost wax brass figurine from Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso. These types of pendants were usually worn on the chest using a leather band or on the hip. Diviners in Senufo communities act as intermediaries between humans … Continue reading Senufo Figurine
PKK 0817-1 Thunderbolt (Varja) from Tibet. This is an exceptionally fine Thunderbolt (Varja) from Tibet. It has all the characteristics and virtues that a Varja must have. The beautifully carved wooden Varja has a deep dark, almost black, surface as if it has been staying in a smoky room for many years. The top of … Continue reading Varja Thunderbolt
IHK 0917-3 Senufo or Tussian (Tousian) Bronze / Copper alloy Pendent, Ivory Coast or Burkina Faso This little bearded male figure with his hands folded around the bended knees may have constituted one figure in a gendered pair used during divination consultations, or a diviner or client may have acquired it from an artist to … Continue reading Bronze Pendent
ROS 1102-8 Mumuye, Yoke Shoulder Mask, Nigeria The Mumuye have shoulder or yoke masks, known as Sukwava, which display an elongated neck set under a diminutive head with large ears. Traditionally they were used during pre-war ceremonies, but nowadays they are worn during rain-making and healing practices. The Mumuye in Nigeria are probably a mixture of … Continue reading Shoulder Mask
JLK 1007-7b Mbete Reliquary Standing Male Figure, Gabon or Republic of Congo Culture: Kota peoples, Mbete group Mbete sculptors developed a figurative reliquary form that fully integrated ancestral sacra within the sculpture. In this tradition, a hollowed columnar torso served as an internal receptacle. The core is framed by the gesture of minimally defined arms held … Continue reading Mbete Figure
JLK 1007- 4b Ambete / Mbete figure, Zaïre (Dem. Rep. Congo / Gabon. A fine and rare Ambete male figure standing on elongated, wedge-shaped feet with the thick bent legs, angular ankles and knees supporting the cylindrical torso with rounded hips, prominent pudendum and conical breasts. The head is helmet-like with abstract mask-like features including … Continue reading Mbete figure
HCK 0617-1 Baule, Goli, kplekple mask, Ivory Coast This is an old very well-carved authentic mask, called kple kple which is a specific type of mask made by the Baule people. Common features of the kple kple disc shaped facemasks include antelope shaped horns, round eyes, rectangular shaped mouth and geometric designs. The red … Continue reading Kple kple mask
NAK 0617-1 Dan Mask – Deangle Mask, Liberia This fine Dan mask is a mask of the ‘Deangle’ type or ‘Tangle’. Men will wear these ‘Deangle masks’, as well as full body costumes with raffia skirts, while watching over and looking after the young men during their initiation time in a secluded bush camp. Here they … Continue reading Dan Mask
ROS 1102-8 Mumuye, Yoke Shoulder Mask, Nigeria The Mumuye have shoulder or yoke masks, known as Sukwava, which display an elongated neck set under a diminutive head with large ears. Traditionally they were used during pre-war ceremonies, but nowadays they are worn during rain-making and healing practices. The Mumuye in Nigeria are probably a mixture … Continue reading Shoulder Mask
ANK 0517- 18/36 Kotoko Bronze Equestrian Figure, Cameroon / Chad (Tchad) This fine, small abstract bronze figure formed as a ‘horse’ with two riders found near the Lake Chad basin, along the Logone and Chan rivers, has been used by the people of Kotoko as a talisman to protect against illness – particularly against mental … Continue reading Kotoko Bronze
ANK 0517-16/17 Kotoko Equestrian, bronze figure, Chad (from Lake Chad – Nigeria, Cameroun and Chad). This São/Kotoko Equestrian bronze figure displays two horse riders, which was found in 1950 near the city of N. Djamena, south of Lake Chad near the Cameroon border. The horse and rider motif is featuring exceptional stylistic versatility and strong … Continue reading Kotoko bronze
ANK 0517-103 – SOLD Sao Equestrian, bronze figure, Chad This is an extremely rare and special equestrian figure which originates from the almost forgotten Sao culture. It was excavated in Chad by archaeologists who found it in a funerary urn along with fine personal ornaments. During the 20th Century, archaeologists found several thousands of urns … Continue reading Sao figure
NAK 0117-6 SOLD Maternity Bronze-Stone Figure, Dogon, Mali This Dogon bronze figure is a maternity figure. The kneeling woman is holding a baby in front of her, she has a circular but flat body with spiky breasts. Her face reveals a couple of protruding lips, and on her head she has a neatly braided hairstyle … Continue reading Dogon Figure
HCK 0617-2 Guro Kple Kple Mask, Baule, Ivory Coast This old, antique mask was created by the Baule people of Ivory Coast. It is a very minimalistic mask carved from wood around the end of the 19th Century. There are two small triangular holes cut which enable the wearer to see. The rectangular mouth … Continue reading Kple Kple Mask
HCK 0617-3 -SOLD Katanda figure, Lega people, Bwami society, Zaïre (Democratic Republic of Congo) This charming bifrontal, standing Katanda figurine carved in dark patinated wood consists of a roughly carved oval head with two unevenly carved Janus faces covered with kaolin, a long articulated neck, a flat body riddled with holes, short raised arms and … Continue reading Katanda figure
NAK 0616-3 – SOLD Gan Bronze Pendent from the Lobi, Burkina Faso L:7 x W:4 x H:3 cm. Weight: 80 grams. An exceptional Gan Bronze pendent representing a Tortoise. Various animals relating to myth such as the lizard or caiman, the serpent and the tortoise are subjects depicted by the Lobi. This type of small … Continue reading Bronze Pendent
KOC 0215-10 Naga Konyak glass bead belt/sash, Nagaland, India This is a very fine, antique glass bead belt in white, red, various shades of brown, blue, light green, yellow and white. The beads are on 29 strings on a plant fiber cord with ten Rhino Bone. The piece is in overall good condition for its … Continue reading Naga belt
SNK 1212-45 Bwa Ram Mask, Bobo Tribe, Burkina Faso This colourful mask with a fascinating symbolic meaning is created by the Bobo Nunuma or Winiama peoples who live in eastern Burkina Faso and Mali in a region of dry savannas where harvest depends on rainfall. The Bobo are farmers and their art is primary used in … Continue reading Bwa Ram Mask
HCK 0816-1 Tall phallic wooden idol from the Dagari / Lobi of Burkina Faso A minimalistic and highly abstract figure with cylindrical head over widening torso and legs with no discernible features other than male genitalia is a phallic idol from the Dagari / Lobi tribe of Burkina Faso. The Dagari are a subgroup … Continue reading Phallic Idol
NAK 1016-1 SOLD Ntomba (Ngata) Female Sarcophagus, Zaïre (Democratic Republic Congo) This unusual, colorful and detailed female coffin (sarcophagus) is cut by a woodcarver in the Ngate-tribe in Zaïre. The decorations, the colors and the shape of her female attributes is a fine example of how this people respect and care for the dead. … Continue reading Sarcophagus
HCK 0117-1 – SOLD Kotoko ‘Putchu Guinadji’ Warrior/Equestrian, Chad (Cameroon) This is a relatively ‘slim’ Kotoko rider in full armour on his horse with a dagger in his right hand is a carefully executed ‘Putchu Guinadji’. Modeled casting with elegant curves, tapering legs, and highly detailed tack, bridles, and saddle. Small and therefore portable, these … Continue reading Kotoko
NAK 0117-2 Boli, Bamana Tribe, Mali This fine and exceptionally well-preserved Watiriwa or Makongoba, zoomorphic four-legged ritual object, called a Boli (pl. boliw), once played a central role in the ritual life of a Bamana village. Such power objects were owned by male initiation associations whose members progress through induction processes that span decades. … Continue reading Boli
HCK 0816-2 Chokwe Figure with Snuff Mortar, Angola, Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia. This fine, old anthropomorphic Chokwe male figure with Snuff Mortar (Tesa Ya Ma Kanya) must have belonged to an important person. The object was once provided with a tiny wooden pestle attached by a short cord that could be … Continue reading Chokwe Figure
NAK 0117 -4 Sukuma Terracotta twin figure, Tanzania These two Clay Twins are from the Sukuma tribe a Bantu ethnic group inhabiting the southeastern African Great Lakes region in Tanzania. The children are formed in hard-burned clay, they have a sweet innocent look with pouting mouths, and tied together around the waist by a cloth … Continue reading Sukuma twin
CRK 1116-1 Baule Guro mask from Cote d’Ivoire This excellent carved classical mask from the Baule people of the Ivory Coast belongs to a special groupe known as portrait masks and evokes the artistry of the Baule artists from the past. These portrait masks are said to portray an honored person of the village or … Continue reading Baule mask
NAK 0117-1 Boli, Bamana, Mali This fine and exceptionally well-preserved zoomorphic four-legged ritual object, called a Boli (pl. boliw), once played a central role in the ritual life of a Bamana village. Such power objects were owned by male initiation associations whose members progress through induction processes that span decades. Over time, they attain esoteric … Continue reading Boli
MSK 1216-1 Bwa Tribe “Dwarf” Plank Mask, Burkina Faso, Black Volta River region. Plank masks are a relatively recent addition to Bwa artistic and ritual practice, and only a few Bwa communities located in Burkina Faso use them. During the performance, the dancer will hold the mask in his hand and from time to … Continue reading Plank Mask
MSK 1216-2 Tellem Plank Figure, Dogon, Mali. A figure with raised arms is one of the most common types of Dogon sculpture and is said to refer to prayers for rain, crucial in this dry region. This gesture can be found on relatively naturalistic Dogon figures as well as on those that have been transformed … Continue reading Tellem Dogon
NAK 0117-8 Kulango / Kulongo Twin Bronze Statuette, Ivory Coast This remarkable double, anthropomorphic statuette – is characteristic of Kulango art: The body emits in a tense game and perfectly controlled balance.The characteristic faces and torn feet, thin legs bent at the knee, protruding rib laced torso forced outward by tightly folded hands while shoulder … Continue reading Kulango Bronze
HCK 0616-1 Lobi Bateba Terracotta Couple Figure, Burkina Faso This grotesque, but beautiful couple depicts a mother holding a child and the proud father from the Lobi Tribe, Burkina Faso. The meaning and use of theese incredible fetish/power figures are unknown, as similar examples to our knowledge have not been collected. Theese figures are made … Continue reading Lobi Couple
NAK 0117 -3 Nok Terracotta Head, Nigeria This classic Nok terracotta head was found in a village about 160 kilometres northeast of Baro in Nigeria in 1947 and estimated to be from around 500 BC till about 200 AD. In 1943 during mining near the village of Nok (hence the name), in Nigeria, Bernard … Continue reading Nok Head
LUK 1004-4 Zaramo Mwana Hiti Figure, Tanzania This is an unusual fine, old Mwana hiti fertility doll from the Wajaramo tribe in Tanzania. Unusually well carved in a dark brown, shiny surfaced patina. The ‘doll’ itself is special. Note the abstract, cylindrical female body shape with the two small bulging breasts. The lofty … Continue reading Zaramo Figure
HCK 1113-3b Chamba Mama, Bush Cow figure, Nigeria It is relatively common to find Chamba Mama Bush Cow masks in international galleries and museums. By contrast, it is extremely rare to get hold of a Mama Bush Cow in full figure. This extraordinary beautiful Mama buffalo-headed male sculptural carving represents a highly stylized wooden zoomorphic … Continue reading Chamba figure
HCK 1116-5 Warrior/Horseman (Putchu Guinadji), Chad (Cameroon) Dimensions: H:5 (2”), L:4 (1,6”), W:1,2 (0,5”) Weight: 65g. Media: Copper/brass/bronze/alloy This Putchu Guinadji equestrian warrior was used as a talisman against madness and witchcraft by the Kotoko people in Cameroon and Chad. These cast equestrian figures, excavated in Chad, was cast by the Kotoko, descendants of the … Continue reading Kotoko
HCK 1116-4 Kotoko Warrior/Horseman (Putchu Guinadji), Chad (Cameroon) Media: Copper/brass/bronze alloy. Dimensions: H: 5 cm (2”), L: 4 cm (1,6”), W: 1,2 cm (0,5”), Weight 65 gram. This Putchu Guinadji equestrian warrior was used as a talisman against madness and witchcraft by the Kotoko people in Cameroon and Chad. These cast equestrian figures, excavated in … Continue reading Kotoko
HCK 1116-6 Nok Terracotta Head, Nigeria This little ‘Nok’ terracotta head was found in a village about 160 kilometres northeast of Baro in Nigeria in1947 and est. to be from around 500 BC. till about 200 AD. Notice the decorative and classic little head with slanted, walleyed drilled eyes under arched eyebrows (which are often … Continue reading Nok Head
HCK 1116-2 Boli Figure, Bamana tribe, Mali Medium: Clay, metal nails and organic materials H: 30 cm (11,8″), L: 35 cm (13,8″), W: 17 cm (6,7″), weight: 3,55 kg. This fine and exceptionally well-preserved zoomorphic four-legged ritual object, called a Boli (pl. boliw), once played a central role in the ritual life of a Bamana village. … Continue reading Boli
HCK 0416-4 SOLD Janus helmet mask from Ukelle group, Ejagham peoples, Nigeria-Cameroon Dimensions: H: 30 cm (47 cm incl. stand), Ø: 26 cm This unusual stylish and classically shaped Ukelle helmet mask is unique in its detailed carvings. Similar masks often miss these details and are instead covered by antelope skins. This mask is from the … Continue reading Janus mask
HCK 1116-3 Baule Embra Monkey figure, Ivory Coast Size: H: 34 cm, W: 8 cm, D: 10 cm This zoomorphic Baule Embra monkey figure often known as Gbekre with dramatic prognostic jaw and sharp teeth and a granular patina resulting from sacrifices. Standing on a circular base the enlarged feet supporting bent legs beneath a … Continue reading Baule Monkey
NAK 1015-20 Dogon Equestrian with Sword, Mali H: 5,8 cm (2,3″), L: 10 cm (3,9″), W: 2 cm (0,8″) This cast equestrian figure expresses status, prestige and power. It would bring honor to the ancestors, the current leadership and the owner of the sculpture. Although rare, horsemen as icon have existed for 1000 years … Continue reading Dogon Figure
EDC 0715-5 Namji (Doyayo, Dowayo, Namchi, Namshi) Fertility Doll, Cameroon Wood, leather, glass pearls and cowry H: 42,5 cm (16,7”)/ 48,5 cm (19,1”), W: 20 cm (7,9”), D: 3,5 cm (1,4”) This is an exceptionally fine and well-kept fetish doll from a family collection since the 1950s. The well-proportioned and classic wooden structure with … Continue reading Namji Doll
EDC 0715-6 Namji (Doayo, Dowayo, Doyayo, Namchi) Fertility Doll, Cameroon Wood, leather, glass pearls and cowry H: 33 / 36 cm, W: 14 cm, D: 4 cm Namji is the people inhabiting an area in the West of the north Cameroon. The Namji tribe is famous for their wooden dolls carved with geometric features … Continue reading Namji Doll
NAK 1015-18 Kotoko Warrior/Horseman (Putchu Guinadji), Chad (Cameroon) Copper/brass/bronze alloy. Dimensions: H: 3 cm (1,2”), L: 4.8 cm (1,9”), W: 1,5 cm (0,6”), Weight 50 gram This Putchu Guinadji equestrian warrior was used as a talisman against madness and witchcraft by the Kotoko people in Cameroon and Chad. These cast equestrian figures, excavated in … Continue reading Kotoko
MZK 0702-3B Marionette Figures from the Nyamwezi People of Tanzania Dark brown patinated wood, brass mounting, cord and fabric H: 27 cm (10,6”), W: 23 cm (9,1”) These fine and rare figures with movable arms and legs are from the Nyamwezi people of Tanzania. Figures like these, depicting a male and female figure, … Continue reading Nyamwezi Couple
HCK 1015-03 SOLD Lega Ivory Spoon, Kalukili, Zaïre (DR Congo) L: 16,5 cm (6,5”) W: 3 cm (1,2”), weight: 50 gram Carved from elephant ( loxodonta africana ) ivory, partly dark patinated, min. dam., slight traces of usage. This spoon has anthropomorphic form with an openwork abstract body and lanceolate head. It is exceptionally … Continue reading Lega Spoon
HCK 1015-01 A rare Lega ‘twin mask’ of the Bwami society with two faces, Zaïre (DR Congo) Wood and fibre H: 36 cm (mask without beard), W: 21 cm (8,3″) Among the Lega (also called Rega, Barega or Warega), in eastern Congo, the Bwami society presides over the tribe’s social and ritual life (6 … Continue reading Lega Mask
HCK 1015-5 Bete Mask, Ivory Coast Dark brown patinated wood H: 32/44 cm (12,6”/17,3”), W: 19 cm (7,5”) This is a fantastic Gre masks from the Bete people in Africa’s Ivory Coast. It shows all the mystery and subtlety that characterizes Bete masks. The well-balanced form and a fine old patina that shows sign … Continue reading Bete Mask
HCK 1015-04 Mende “Bundu” or “Sowei” helmet mask, Sande society, Sierra Leone and Liberia Old black and patinated wood H: 37 cm (14,6”), Ø: 22 cm (8,7”) This mask presents an ideal of feminine beauty admired by the Mende: elaborate hairstyle, full forehead and small facial features. The gleaming surface signifies healthy, glowing skin. … Continue reading Mende Mask
HCK 1015-06 SOLD Dan-Guere (also Ngere, Kran or Wè), Ivory Coast, Liberia Dark old black patinated wood H: 28/44 cm (11″/17,3″), W: 16 cm (6,3″) This is an interesting, extremely angular, old ‘cubistic’ chimpanzee mask, called ‘kaogle’ or ‘kagle’. It was used with large costumes during important feasts of the Dan-Guere (also Wè or … Continue reading Dan-Guere Mask
SNK 1212-6 Male ‘blolo bian’ Figure with Coin Amulet ‘Queen Elisabeth I’, Baule, Ivory Coast This elegantly carved male figure with the typical short arms and strong, muscular legs comes from the Baule people of Ivory Coast well known for the quality and detail of their carving. The Baule people in Ivory Coast … Continue reading Blolo Bian Figure
