Description:

Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Tetela or Mongo people, ca. late 19th century CE. A lengthy iron dowry currency spear with a thin shaft, a conical and flat-bottomed terminal, and an enormous twin-bladed spearhead. The head has a large midrib separating each half; hues of light-orange and russet color each half of one side, and alternate colors on the reverse. Spears like this would have been given as dowries or used as currency to purchase other necessities, though it would not have been used in battle given the overall size; it was likely a symbol of status or wealth made larger than necessary for use in battle. Size: 25.625" L x 6.75" W (65.1 cm x 17.1 cm).

Provenance: private Omer Claiborne collection, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; acquired over the last 40 years

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#129259

  • Condition: Age-commensurate surface wear, with some nicks and abrasions. Mineral deposits and oxidation throughout.

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December 20, 2017 7:00 AM MST
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 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000