14 - Ceremonial staff with figurative finial, "solima bere"

Ceremonial staff with figurative finial, "solima bere" Bamana. Mali Without base Wood. H 51 cm. Provenance: - Emil Storrer (1917–1989), Galerie Storrer, Zurich. - Before 1969: Hermann Alfred Sigg (1924–2023), Niederhasli. - Hammer Auctions, Basel, February 18, 2026, Lot 7. - Swiss private collection. High-ranking dignitaries, such as regional princes, village chiefs, or tribal elders, possess a rich repertoire of visible symbols of office. These insignia frequently include artfully carved ceremonial staffs, which are often passed down through generations. These artfully crafted symbols of lineage, rank, religious affiliation, power, and distinction accompany their owners as personal possessions and are ceremonially presented during public appearances. In addition to their primary function, scepers, clubs, and ceremonial or dance staffs are versatile, and their symbolism is complex. Particularly valuable examples are often carefully decorated and sometimes crowned with figurative representations. As extensions of the hand and arm, they serve, for example, as supports, as instruments of protection, for poking, nudging, and shoving, for waving, or generally for signaling. Furthermore, they play a significant role in ritual contexts and embody the presence of the ancestors in various ceremonies. In some regions, a dignitary therefore takes an oath on a ceremonial staff during his or her inauguration. This staff most likely originates from the context of female initiation rites. -------------------------------- Hermann Alfred Sigg (1924–2023) and Hilda Sigg (1925–2025) The artistic and collecting careers of Hermann Alfred and Hilda Sigg began in postwar Paris, where the couple met and studied at the Académie André Lhote. After returning to Switzerland, they established a studio and living space in Oberhasli near Zurich, a project influenced in part by Max Frisch. In the 1960s, the Siggs acquired high-quality African sculptures through the Zurich dealer Emil Storrer. The works remained in the collection for decades and are now reappearing on the market for the first time in over sixty years—backed by distinguished provenance, connoisseurship, and the continuity of the collection. CHF 1,000 / 2,000 Weight in grams: 261 Condition: The right nipple is missing. -------------------------------- Hammer Auctions places great importance on providing a careful and as precise as possible description of all lots offered in the catalog. Each lot is documented with multiple photographs intended to convey as comprehensive an impression of its condition as possible. This includes, in particular, visible signs of wear, irregularities, and age-related changes. We recommend that all interested parties and bidders carefully examine the photographs before placing a bid, as they form an essential part of the lot description. In addition, we recommend viewing the items in person before the auction, if possible. All condition descriptions are provided to the best of our knowledge and belief and are based on our professional assessment. They are provided for informational purposes only and do not claim to be exhaustive. In particular, there may be age- or wear-related characteristics that are neither explicitly mentioned nor visible in the photographs. Hammer Auctions assumes no liability for unintentional errors or omissions in the condition descriptions to the extent permitted by law. However, we always strive to resolve any ambiguities or concerns in a transparent, fair, and straightforward manner. Should a lot deviate in material respects from its catalog description, Hammer Auctions offers a return option in accordance with the following provisions. Buyers may report such a deviation in writing within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the lot. If the complaint is justified, the lot may be returned by mutual agreement. The purchase price will be refunded in full upon receipt and inspection of the returned item. We are always happy to assist you personally with any questions, additional photographs, or further information.