Object: A Fine Songye Charm Figure
Size: ~4"
Age: Late 19th/Early 20th Century
Provenance: Josef Hermann, Amsterdam 1960s
Drs. Jean and Noble Endicott, NYC
** An old black and white photo from the Herman archives is
available.
Published : To Cure and Protect, Museum for African Art
Exhibited Museum for African Art 1991
Notes: This is a spectacular little Songye charm. The patina
shows generations of use. The partially encrusted surface
exhibits heavily worn highpoints exposing the beautiful warm
color of the wood. The expression is strong yet charming. The
figure is pierced for attachments; possibly this was a personal
charm worn around the neck or perhaps attached to a larger
figure. This is a very high quality carving for such a
diminutive Songye. Important to note, the 'charge' cavity in the
head retains some of its original magic 'bilongo' even after all
these years.
Price upon request
|
|
