- 54
Kongo Ivory Double Figure, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- hippopotamus ivory
- Height: 2 1/2 inches (6.4 cm)
made of Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius) tooth.
Provenance
The Robbins Center For Cross Cultural Communication, Washington, D.C.
Condition
Good condition for an object of this age and type. Minor nicks and scratches consistent with age. Old vertical hairline age cracks as seen in catalogue photograph, and including one running down the spine of both figures. Loss to the proper right edge of the integrally-carved base with some old glue. Fine rubbed cream-colored surface with some color variation inherent in the ivory.
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
Marc Leo Felix (personal communication, January 21, 2013) commented about this sculpture: "Even though this particular iconography is not Kongo, in the other parts of the Congo, it depicts either a person of rank, being carried during intronisation, or a young woman being carried by an initiator during intitiation ceremonies."