- 140
Mangbetu prestige Knife surmounted by a female hallfigure, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 USD
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Description
- wood, metal
Provenance
Jo Christians, Brussels
Acquired by the present owner from the above
Acquired by the present owner from the above
Condition
Excellent condition overall; minor abrasions, nicks and scratches; fine medium brown patina, metal blade partially corroded on surface.
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.
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.
Catalogue Note
For two Mangbetu knifes by the same artist see Robbins and Nooter (1989: 495, fig. 1280) and Burssens and Guisson (1992: cat. 54). In their discussion of one of the aforementioned knifes Schildkrout and Keim (1990: 152, text to cat. 8.9) note: "The exchange of gifts among Mangbetu and Avongara rulers influenced art styles in the region. This highly embellished knife may have been presented by a chief to one of his courtiers or to another chief."