21 - Spoon, "poloh"

Spoon, "poloh" Wè-Wobé. Ivory Coast With base Wood. H 42 cm. Provenance: - 1997: Galerie Walu, Zurich. - Hammer Auctions, Basel, Dec. 18, 2020, Lot 35. - Swiss private collection, Zurich. Surrounding oneself with beautiful objects has always been a fundamental aspiration of all peoples. The pursuit of beauty is evident, among other things, in the design of artfully crafted everyday objects. The creative drive to find perfect solutions by blending technical-practical and formal-aesthetic functions has produced astonishingly fascinating results over the generations. Spoons such as these, with an elongated bowl intended to represent a “belly swollen with rice,” are part of ceremonial paraphernalia. They are the material manifestation of a spirit helper who stood by the side of high-ranking women who hosted guests. During the harvest season between November and February, numerous festivities lasting several days took place, to which every villager contributed what they could. Following various events and dance performances, the women prepared the concluding feast. To kick off the feast, they marched in with their artfully decorated rice spoons and bowls to symbolically distribute food to the guests in a ritual dance. Further reading: Fischer, Eberhard / Himmelheber, Hans (1976). The Art of Dan. Zurich: Museum Rietberg. CHF 800 / 1,600 Weight in grams: 510 Condition: 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 provide 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 submitting 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 use-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.