Description:

West Africa, Nigeria, Igbo/Yoruba cultures, ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. A pair of brass bells cast using the lost wax method, and one attached to a copper and brass chain. The larger bell features raised undulating lines and half circles around the rim and suspension loop, while the smaller bell has an incised pattern around its loop. The larger bell was likely used for an altar, while the smaller bell may have been worn. The sounds of both bells were believed to call upon the ancestors, inviting them to hear prayers and partake in the offerings. Size of large bell: 3.5" L x 6" H (8.9 cm x 15.2 cm); small bell: 1.6" Diameter x 2.2" H (4.1 cm x 5.6 cm)

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Scottish collection

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#190273

  • Condition: Old repair to the side of the large bell with welded material patching a hole. The interior iron clapper is also possibly a old replacement since it is a different material from the bell. Small bell is intact with age expected surface wear and patina. The chain is comprised of 2 different strands of links, perhaps a old repair / addition as well. Both bells emit sound.

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January 9, 2025 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