Lot 179
  • 179

A Kwere or Zaramo Flatbar Zither, Tanzania

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 USD
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

the rectangular shaft with incised decoration surmounted by a female head with bi-lobed coiffure, on the bottom with an open calabash attached; exceptionally fine lustrous reddish-brown patina.

Provenance

Fred Jahn, Munich

Exhibited

Iowa City, The University of Iowa Museum of Art, Kilengi: African Art from the Bareiss Family Collection, March 27 - May 23, 1999 (for additional venues see bibliography, Roy 1997)

Literature

Marc Leo Felix, Mwana Hiti: Life and Art of the Matrilineal Bantu of Tanzania, Munich, 1990, p. 310, pl. 135
Christopher D. Roy, Kilengi: African Art from the Bareiss Family Collection, Seattle, 1997, pp. 89 and 332, fig. 35
--, Kilengi. Afrikanische Kunst aus der Sammlung Bareiss, Hanover, 1997, pp. 93 and 336, fig. 35

Condition

excellent condition overall; minor scratches, gourd cracked in three places with ancient repair; exceptionally fine lustrous reddish-brown patina.
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.