Songye Male Power Figure, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Pierre Dartevelle, Brussels
Pace Primitive, New York, acquired from the above in 1981
Martin Lerner, New York, acquired from the above in July 1982

The Bruce Museum, Greenwich, Three African Traditions: the Art of the Dogon, Fang and Songye, January 31 - April 18, 1999; additional venue:
The Museum for African Art, New York, April 30 - August 15, 1999

Allen Wardwell, Three African Traditions: the Art of the Dogon, Fang and Songye, Greenwich, 1999,  p. 36, cat. 57

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Minor nicks, scratches, marks, and abrasions. Numerous holes from insertion of charges in head and body, some with hairline age cracks and many with wood or vegetal pieces remaining. Bundle in navel with hole and hairline crack running vertically through abdomen. Three metal nails in bundle at top of head. Age crack to back of integrally carved base of sculpture. Hole in center of foot continuing throguh integrally carved base and into body between legs. Fine varied medium brown patina with encrustation. Surface polished. Form-fitting base with peg for insertion into hole in bottom of the sculpture, removable. Round white sticker with "3618" on underside.
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.