Yoruba Gynomorphic Terracotta Vessel, Nigeria

Drs. John and Nicole Dintenfass, New York

Excellent condition overall; minor losses to proper left thumb and edges of the supports, minor cracks around central support and on chest of figure; exceptionally fine medium brown patina with encrustation.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Yoruba gynomorphic ritual vessels have first been documented in an article by Peter Morton-Williams in 1964 (see Morton-Williams 1964: 243-261). Few other related vessels are known. See one in the Musée du Quai Branly, Paris (inv. no. "73.1997.4.100", previously Musée Barbier Mueller, Geneva); a second in the Israel Museum, Jerusalem (reg. no. "561.84", gift of Gustave Schindler); a third and a fourth sold at Christie's London, June 29, 1994, lot 188 and Sotheby's New York, November 21, 1996, lot 262. It is possible that the aforementioned works as well as the offered lot are all creations by the same artist.