Description:

Central Africa, Gabon, Kota (Bakota) people, ca. early 20th century CE. A wonderful example of a classic Kota item, a cast brass bird-headed piece of currency. This large, solid brass item features a long-beaked, near-flat aviform head with a large openwork eye and small crest projecting from the back of the head. Below the head is a large, flat handle with a similar projecting crest form near its base; this is fitted into a thick, round handle terminating in a phalliform point. Low ridges along the head and upper part of the handle provide further detail. Size: 12.75" W x 14.85" H (32.4 cm x 37.7 cm); 16.4" H (41.7 cm) on included custom stand.

See an almost identical item offered by Bonhams in May 15, 2008, Lot 708, offered for $3000.

Provenance: private Glendale, Arizona, USA collection, collected from 1970 to 2000

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#152462

  • Condition: Intact, with rich patina on all surfaces.

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February 13, 2020 8:00 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 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000