Description:

Western Africa, Southeastern Nigeria / Cameroon, Ekoi (Ejagham) culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. An ancestral figural crest made from wood, woven rattan, antelope leather, and resin that once held hair or fur in place. The wooden form is carved with a shallow opening on the base, with a rattan rim surrounding and forming a base. The leather is wrapped and dried in place - the smooth surface is from rubbing oil rubbing into the hide. Resin or pitch is added to the head and some remains of wispy hair is stuck to the surface. This crest figure may have rested atop the head of an initiated member during the Ekpo Society ceremonies and funerals. Society members act as messengers to the ancestors and perform dances wearing costumes with these crests attached on top. Size: 4" W x 10.5" H (10.2 cm x 26.7 cm); 12.75" H (32.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Eric Robertson collection, New York City, New York, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.

#182774

  • Condition: Missing one tooth. Surface has heavy patina and lustrous from oiled leather. Missing hair. Visible seam from leather running from head to rattan rim along right side. Overall great condition.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Shipping

Auction House will ship, at Buyer's expense

December 7, 2023 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 26.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

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