Statuette en ivoire, Pinda, Angola

Collection privée, acquis en Angola ca. 1955

Wear consistent with age and use within the culture. Very good condition overall. Very beautiful red patina from the tukula powder which the figure was coated with during its prolonged use.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Cette très rare statuette en ivoire faisait partie de l'appareil rituel d'un nganga (devin-guérisseur). La cavité percée au sommet de la tête servait à contenir une relique, probablement une dent, à l'instar des statuettes-reliquaires conservées au Museu nacional de Etnologia de Lisbonne, qui furent saisies en 1948 par l'administration coloniale, dans le nord de la Cambalo. L'art des Pinda, tout autant que leur culture, n'est documenté qu'à travers ces très rares statuettes féminines, arborant toutes une coiffure bipartite, enduites de poudre rouge de tukula et dont le buste traduit une saisissante invention formelle. Voir Bastin (Sculpture Angolaise, Mémorial de cultures, 1998, p. 91, n° 59 à 61), pour les statuettes-reliquaires du musée de Lisbonne.