Lot 247
**Originally Listed At $300**
West Africa, Mali, Bamana / Dogon culture, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. An iron staff with a pointed tip for insertion into the ground, featuring hooked arms once used to suspend bell-shaped ornaments - one of which remains intact. Atop the looped upper end sits an elongated, stylized human figure. Iron staffs, typically crafted by blacksmiths, are often associated with individuals who have attained high status or important titles within their communities. They may also be specially commissioned by members of initiation societies and placed around altars in sacred groves or inside shrine structures. During rituals, these staffs are often honored with offerings - such as millet, water, or beer - which are poured over them, resulting in the pronounced rusting seen on many examples, including this piece! Size: 31" L x 3" W (78.7 cm x 7.6 cm)
Provenance: private Louisville, Kentucky, USA collection, acquired 1990-1998
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
SHIPPING EXCEPTIONS: Due to customs clearance issues, we are unable to ship to Germany, Switzerland and Australia. If you live in Germany, Switzerland or Australia, you will need to provide an alternate shipping destination, or we will not be able to complete your purchase. In addition, please note that we are unable to ship ancient items back to the original country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.)
PAYMENT EXCEPTION: Unless a known customer of Artemis, payment for all gold / precious metal / gem lots must be made via Bank Wire Transfer or Certified Bank Check/Money Order, no exceptions.
#193508
- Condition: Missing dangling ornaments and losses to the remaining one. Heavy patina and oxidation throughout from weathering and exposure to elements.
Accepted Forms of Payment:
ACH, American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer
Shipping
Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense
Artemis Fine Arts
You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 30% and any applicable taxes and shipping.
View full terms and conditions
| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $20,000 |