Lot 121
  • 121

A Superb and rare Ngangela Staff, Angola

Estimate
25,000 - 35,000 USD
bidding is closed

Description

the abstract torso surmounted by an oval shaped head with bi-lobed coiffure; exceptionally fine lustrous dark brown patina with residue.

Provenance

Pierre Dartevelle, Brussels
Phillipe Guimiot, Brussels
Johann Levy, Paris

Literature

Johann Levy - Galerie Rachlin-Lemarié (advertisement), Arts d'Afrique Noire Premiers, no. 102, Eté 1997, p. 30 (described as 'Ovimbundu')

Condition

excellent condition overall; age cracks on reverse of shaft, minor age cracks on head, nicks and scratches wear and tear from traditional handling; exceptionally fine dark brown patina with residue.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

The Ngangela live in south east Angola in the Upper Cubango River region. The typical double-crested coiffure worn by Ngangala women attracted the interest of early travelers such as Serpa Pinto who described it in his 1881 travel accounts (Bastin 1994: 50). For a similar staff in the Museu e Laboratório Antropológico, Coimbra, see Bastin (1994: 175, fig. 229); for another see Segy (1958: pl. 109, described as 'Balunda').