A Rare Attie or Tu Ancestor Figure, Ivory Coast

Charles Ratton, Paris
Guy Loudmer, Paris, June 27, 1986, lot 252
John and Nicole Dintenfass, New York
Pace Primitive, New York
Arnold and Lucille Alderman, New Haven, acquired from the above
Sotheby's, New York, May 17, 2002, lot 41
Robert T. Wall Family, Telluride, acquired at the above auction

Good condition overall; age crack through front of base and proper left foot; age crack through proper left side of torso, filled with fibers; several other vertical age cracks through front of figure and left side and front of head as seen on photographs; beard presumably restored; 'W0245' in silver ink, and 'EG56' on base; aged crusty patina with eggshells and chicken feathers.
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.

For a closely related female figure in the collection of Brian and Diane Leyden, Greatneck, see Robbins and Nooter (1989: 190, fig. 405).