Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, or Gabon, Teke people (Tio/Bateke), ca. early 20th century CE. A pair of heavy, beautiful brass (copper alloy) collars or torcs, each a disc-like circular form with a wide interior border and thin edges. One has a cog-like form, with "teeth" at regular intervals around its edges; its face is decorated with densely incised geometric motifs. The other has a wavy edge, giving it a flower-like appearance, and the motifs on its surface are more irregular and organic. Size of largest: 12.75" W (32.4 cm)

These brass collars with chased geometric motifs were an important insignia of power among the Teke. The decoration expressed the spiritual status of the owner. It is believed that the number of notches was a reference to the number of villages which the chief had ruled. Each was fashioned around a large log, which created the inner circumference.

Provenance: private New York, USA collection, purchased from artist Norio Azuma in Tokyo, Japan, 1944

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#147074

  • Condition: Both have signs of wear commensurate with age, including some small dings and scratches, but overall they are in very nice condition with rich, warm patinas and light deposits.

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November 14, 2019 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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