Fang Female Reliquary Figure, Gabon

Reportedly in the "Moriss Collection", possibly referring to Père Antony Innocent Moris, Paris
Dr. Gaston Durville, Boulogne-sur-Mer and Paris, acquired circa 1930s
Ladislas and Helena Segy, New York, acquired from the above in 1956

Good condition for an object of this type and age. Minor marks, nicks, scratches, abrasions, and small chips consistent with age. Cuts to lower part of back of coiffure. Surface abrasion and erosion to top proper left of back and upper proper left arm. Loss to outside of proper right foot. Surface lacquered. Post cut with a screw embedded for attachment to European base, removable. Old Durville collection label under foot of base.
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.

A male figure by the same hand as this fine small-scale Fang reliquary statue was published on the front cover of Marie-Louise Bastin's 1984 publication Introduction aux arts d'Afrique noire, see fig. 1.