Ethnic Design-Yombe Chief Staff "Mwaala", Kongo Art, Yann Ferrandin, Paris 2009.

Solid forged Bamileke short sword with a finely carved face on the top of the handle. Patina of use

This artifact carved in wood is from the Kongo people of the Congo. One side represents a crucified Christ ,whilst the other shows a representation of the Virgin Mary. It’s clearly an object of authority and prestige and a combination of locally grounded and foreign insignia.Very nice use patina. The Kingdom of Kongo, founded in the 14th century, has some of the earliest Christian influence in sub-Saharan Africa. The conversion to Christianity in 1512 of King Alfoso I of the Kongo saw the subsequent creation by Kongolese sculptors of Christian crucifixes...

Yoruba Divination Tapper with Kneeling Female Figure, Nigeria, Africa Carved wood tappers such as this were used by diviners among the Yoruba along with divination tray, such as my ...

A fantastically hand-crafted piece by the Kota (or Bakota) tribe who are located in the northeastern region of Gabon. This figure, which is a Mahongwe reliquary figure as exhibited with its truncated almond-shaped face, is made of wound copper, hammered brass and wood. Reliquary figures were used as guardians to protect the revered bones of venerated family ancestors and leaders and ward off unwanted spirits. These figures are meant to embody intense powers and were also commonly used in communal rites and ritual performances. This particular piece came from an American collector who traveled the African continent and collected African artifacts for over 50 years. This piece has a beautiful, organically aged patina acquired naturally over time and use. It is mounted on a custom wooden display stand. We believe it dates back to the early to mid-1900s but could be older. We are listing as 20th century because we did not have it appraised. This African Tribal Statue Osseyba or Reliquary Figure Kota (Bakota) Mohongwe Peoples decorative art would clearly stand out as part of a collection or by itself in any setting. Truly unique, eye-catching and engaging. Dimensions on stand: 25 3/4" High, 7" Wide, 5 1/2" Deep Kota Reliquary...