- 191
An exceptional Zulu or Tsonga Dance staff, South Africa
Estimate
6,000 - 9,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- wood
the cylindrical shaft surmounted by a carved monkey head with eyes inset with glass beads and the vertical blade inserted into the mouth, with four bands of plated wire attached; fine medium brown patina.
Condition
good condition overall; snout of monkey broken and repaired with strands of plated wire (ancient repair); small parts between brows missing; fine medium 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.
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
Both the dull blade and the relative lightness and low density of the wood suggest that this object was used rather as a performance device than as a tool. For a snuffbox dance staff with similar wirework see Klopper, Nettleton and Pethica (2007: 207, no. 113).