Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, eastern Pende peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A fine pendant, hand-carved from the bone of an ungulate, displaying a stylized maskette comprised of sizeable, closed eyes, an upturned nose, and full lips, all flanked by a pair of petite ears. A striped headdress sits atop the visage's hemispherical coiffure, which displays a pointed widow's peak. A lengthy beard featuring a high central crest extends from the chin. The headdress is pierced with a pair of drill holes for suspension. Pendants like this example are worn for longevity after being given to a 12-year-old boy upon initiation to adulthood. Size: 1.875" L x 0.75" W (4.8 cm x 1.9 cm); 2.875" H (7.3 cm) on included custom stand

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-private New Bedford, Massachusetts, USA collection, purchased at an Ancient Objects Auction, October 5th, 2019 as part of a lot

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#163890

  • Condition: Wearable as a pendant. Light abrasions to bottom of beard and verso. Otherwise, intact and excellent with lovely patina.

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June 24, 2021 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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