Lot 2
  • 2

Cuiller double en ivoire, Lega, République Démocratique du Congo

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 EUR
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Description

  • Lega
  • Cuiller double en ivoire
  • Elephant ivory (Loxondonta Africana)
  • haut. 20 cm
  • 7 3/4 in

Provenance

Collecté in situ par l’administrateur territorial Raymond Hombert, entre 1924 et 1930
Collection Tom Hombert, Bruxelles
Jean-Pierre Lepage, Bruxelles
Collection Alexis Bonew, acquis en 1972-73

Condition

Very good condition overall. Wear consistent with age and use within the culture. Very beautiful old nuanced patina with variety of light, brown and reddish tones. Number 5 written in black to the rear of one spoon bowl.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

Les cuillers kalukili constituent pour l'initié du Bwami "le symbole de la pérennité lignagière et la mémoire des exploits de ses ancêtres" (Brown in Felix, White Gold, Black Hands, Ivory Sculpture in Congo, vol. 6, p. 118). Elles intervenaient durant les danses et lors de rituels éminemment symboliques, comme celui de "nourrir" un masque durant le rite nkunda. A la diversité de leurs formes répond la grande rareté des cuillers doubles, de surcroît ornées, comme ici, de deux visages opposés.