Tikar Pipe, Cameroon

Christine Valluet, Paris
Marc and Denyse Ginzberg, New York, acquired from the above

Museum for African Art, New York, African Forms, February 2 - August 19, 2001; additional venues:
Davenport Museum of Art, Davenport, September 8 - November 11, 2001
Mingei International Museum, San Diego, February 10 - September 15, 2002
Mount Holyoke College Art Museum, South Hadley, January 30 - March 14, 2003
The Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, Cornell, September 9 - October 3, 2004

Marc Ginzberg, African Forms, Milan, 2000, p. 126
Elisabeth L. Cameron, "More than the Human Figure: The Marc and Denyse Ginzberg Collection of African Art", African Arts, Vol. 34, No. 2, Summer 2001, p. 57, fig. 7b

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Minor marks, nicks, scratches, and abrasions throughout consistent with age and use. Pipe can be disassembled, the top element with relief carving fitting into the bottom element with modern green felt added to make it snug. Age cracks to one side and in crook of "elbow" with a small patch of old fill. Exceptionally fine dark brown glossy patina. Some scattered small white spots. Metal mouthpiece and metal lining to pipe bowl with oxidation.
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.