29 - Prestigious Art Object, Querhorn

Prestigious Art Object, Querhorn Carved. Ivory Coast Without base Wood. H 27 cm. Provenance: Swiss private collection, Bern. Acquired in Abidjan between 1969 and 1972. “We cannot live without beautiful things”—this statement by a Baule could just as easily have come from a Western art lover. Surrounding oneself with artistically crafted objects was just as important to the Akan people of Ivory Coast as it is to today’s collectors of African art. This appreciation for beauty was evident in both finely crafted ritual figures and carefully decorated everyday objects. Miniature carvings made of wood served as representative showpieces for Akan dignitaries and were publicly displayed as “beautiful objects” during festive occasions. The depicted motifs—such as a cross-horn shown here—can represent people, animals, or objects and may allude to valued characteristics, social values, or traditional proverbs. Further reading: Ross, Doran, and Eisner, Georg (2008). The Gold of the Akan. Museum Liaunig. Neuhaus: Museumsverwaltung GmbH. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 52 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.