Miniature en ivoire, Lega, République Démocratique du Congo

Collecté in situ par l’administrateur territorial Raymond Hombert, entre 1924 et 1930
Collection Tom Hombert, Bruxelles
Jean-Pierre Lepage, Bruxelles
Collection Alexis Bonew, Bruxelles, acquis en 1972-73

"42" inscrit à l'encre noire sous la base

Good condition overall. Wear consistent with age and use within the culture. Beautiful patina with varying shades from light to reddish brown tones typical of old elephant ivory. One side of the object has an hole inherent to its use. Number 12 is written in black on this same side.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Cette rare miniature en ivoire d'un tabouret kisumbi était autrefois, selon Daniel Biebuyck (Lega. Ethique et Beauté au cœur de l'Afrique, 2002, p. 226) "l'insigne de la fonction et de la position d'un initié qui jouit de privilèges spéciaux au sein du grade kansilembo. [Sa] possession impliquait le droit d'organiser des rites de circoncision". Voir Felix (White Gold, Black Hands, Ivory Sculpture in Congo, vol. 6, p. 134) pour une miniature comparable, conservée au Musée de Tervuren.