Baule Tribe Decorative Objects

A fantastically hand-crafted piece by the Kota (or Bakota) tribe who are located in the northeastern region of Gabon. This figure, which is a Mahongwe reliquary figure as exhibited with its truncated almond-shaped face, is made of wound copper, hammered brass and wood. Reliquary figures were used as guardians to protect the revered bones of venerated family ancestors and leaders and ward off unwanted spirits. These figures are meant to embody intense powers and were also commonly used in communal rites and ritual performances. This particular piece came from an American collector who traveled the African continent and collected African artifacts for over 50 years. This piece has a beautiful, organically aged patina acquired naturally over time and use. It is mounted on a custom wooden display stand. We believe it dates back to the early to mid-1900s but could be older. We are listing as 20th century because we did not have it appraised. This African Tribal Statue Osseyba or Reliquary Figure Kota (Bakota) Mohongwe Peoples decorative art would clearly stand out as part of a collection or by itself in any setting. Truly unique, eye-catching and engaging. Dimensions on stand: 25 3/4" High, 7" Wide, 5 1/2" Deep Kota Reliquary...

Ancient Cubist Kuba Dance Mask Black Patina, Cone Shaped Eyes, from the Congo, Africa. It is in good condition with wear, polish and erosion from traditional use, appropriate for it...

This small Baule cast-bronze crocodile from Côte d’Ivoire is boldly stylized, with an elongated snout, splayed legs, and a curling tail that gives the figure a lively silhouette. Rai...

A hand carved wooden female figure sculpture. The wooden carved sculpture is in the shape of a female figure and sits on a square base. This sculptural figure appears to be made out ...

A scarce antique African tribal carved Hemba helmet mask, the Suku peoples, possibly Kwese culture, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central Africa, early 20th century, surmounted by four-legged animal, over round face, with mouth ajar and incised jagged teeth exposed, protruding almond shaped eyes, scattered remnants of pigment, full raffia fiber fringe, mounted on wood stand. A superb museum quality example, this remarkable tribal folk art sculpture is a wonderful way to add rustic warmth, rich historical depth, and fascinating cultural interest to any space! Dimensions: (approx) Overall: 26" High, 9" Wide, 10.25" Deep; Mask only: 15" Tall; 7 lbs total Provenance / Acquisition: Acquired from the highly reputable auction house, Austin Auction Gallery, est.1983, Austin, Texas. Excellent Condition: Nicely aged distressed patina over the whole. Highly desirable wear consistent with age and indicative of use, including scattered losses, antique character marks and typical signs of aging throughout. Retaining scattered remnants of original pigment. Overall a superb museum quality example Primitive Arts Of Africa: Among the Suku of the southwestern part of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, masks plays crucial role in protecting boys during initiation, the vulnerable period between boyhood and manhood. The power contained in Hemba masks...

Collection of Six Dan and Bassa Passport Miniature Masks Ivory Coast Africa Dan and Bassa passport masks were small masks for individuals carried as charms for protection and healin...

Carved wood large female Songye Kifwebe mask with classic white lines, blackened ridge down crest of forehead, nose and mouth. Worn holes around back edge of mask from attachment of...

Early and rare mask from Gabon, Central Africa, created by the Tsogho peoples. Powerful large mask with carved open eyes, and black painted eyes above, below heavy carved eyebrows. ...

Small Pende carved wood mask with red, black and white pigments, DRC Congo Africa Democratic Republic of the Congo, Central Africa. 5 1/2 inches high, Mounted on metal and wood base...

This small Baule bronze elephant from Côte d’Ivoire possesses a lively, spirited presence. Its rounded body, broad ears, sturdy legs, and dramatically rai...

Elegant Dan Mask with large eyes from the Ivory Coast, Africa. Fairly flat tear drop shaped face with outlined eyes, small tight projecting nose and mouth with expressive lips. It i...

Early to mid century danced light wood mask from the Kumu or Maniema region, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa with face divided into four opposing quadrants with orange and trace...

Early Yoruba offering bowl in the from of a male figure with a beard riding on horse back surrounded by four small attendants, finely carved with nice patina from native use. Probabl...

Strong Marka antelope - human wood mask with metal, Mali Africa. Large square open eyes, long nose with horizontal lips, three projecting brass metal braids ending with feathered cl...

This small Baule bronze gecko from Côte d’Ivoire is rendered with a charming balance of naturalism and stylization. Its elongated body, splayed legs, and ...