A Luba-Songye Amulet, Democratic Republic of the Congo

carved from a hippopotamus (hippopotamus amphibius) canine tooth, of dramatically curving form, pierced twice for suspension and decorated with circular motifs, surmounted by an oval head with worn facial features in the Songye style; aged milk-white patina with encrustation on the inside of both pierced holes.

Marc Leo Felix, Brussels

excellent condition overall; minor age cracks as seen on photographs, wear and tear; aged milk-white patina with encrustation on the inside of holes.
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.
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In her discussion of a similar example from from the Raymond and Laura Wielgus Collection, Pelrine (1996: 60, text to fig. 20) notes: "Among the most delicate African sculptures are Luba amulets, which take the form of heads, busts, and figures [...]. Carved from [elephant] ivory [...], as well as from hippopotamus and warthog teeth, such amulets are worn bandolier-style, suspended from the neck or waist, or attached to the arms. In addition, leaders might sometimes attach them to the tops of their staffs of office. They are said to commemorate deceased relatives and may be given the names of those ancestors. The amulets are believed to protect their wearers[...]."

For a closely related example formerly in the Béla Hein Collection, Paris, see De Grunne (2001: 42, cat. 22). For a Luba emblem attributed to an atelier in the Lukuga region see Neyt (1993: 197). However, in its facial features the present lot shows strong affinities to Songye style and it is possible that this work was created not by a Luba but a Songye artist.