Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bantu cultures, Lega and Lengola, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A pair of carved wooden abstract figures. The larger example, with two stacked heads above a pair of bent legs and broad feet, is characteristic of Lega sculpture and likely associated with Bwami society rituals. The second figure, formed with a round base, open diamond-shaped body, stylized female torso, and head, is likely from Lengola carving traditions and may have served as a reliquary guardian or ancestor figure. Size of largest: 3.25" W x 11.75" H (8.3 cm x 29.8 cm); 13.5" H (34.3 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Santa Fe, New Mexico USA collection

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Item # 200605

  • Condition: Larger figure has a stable but deep pressure fissure radiating from the head, and a gouge to the top of head. Old loss to base on the other figure, with chips and abrasions to top of head. Both have a lustrous and smooth patina.

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Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

June 5, 2026 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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