Lot 69C
Southern Africa, Zambia, Lozi peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A rare and visually engaging Lozi wood adze, its form blending utilitarian function with sculptural ornamentation. The handle extends upward to a female figure, stylized yet expressive, lying at the juncture where the haft meets the blade. Along the top of the handle, three carved ducks march in sequence, their rounded bodies and upturned necks creating a rhythmic silhouette. The blade itself is carved with intersecting linear motifs, adding a subtle layer of geometric decoration. Among the Lozi and related groups, such adzes were not solely tools but carried ceremonial or symbolic value, with the recurring duck motif documented as a hallmark of the tradition. While Lozi artistic production is generally concentrated in vegetal-fiber basketry, carved wooden boxes, neck rests, and terracotta vessels, figural woodcarving of this complexity is comparatively rare, making this example an exceptional survival. Size: 8.4" L x 3" W x 20.4" H (21.3 cm x 7.6 cm x 51.8 cm)
Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, acquired in 2010 via descent; ex-private collection of Ralph T. Coe, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA, purchased during a trip to England with Taylor "Tad" Dale in 1995
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#195966
- Condition: Some old, inactive insect damage on end of handle. Surface wear with nicks and abrasions throughout. Otherwise, intact and very nice with good detail and rich patina.
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