59 - Oracle bowl, "agere-ifa"

Oracle bowl, "agere-ifa" Yoruba. Nigeria Without base Wood. H 15.5 cm. Ø 14.5 cm. Provenance: - Nourridine Issifou, Lomé. - 2010: Galerie Walu, Zurich. - Hammer Auctions, Zurich, November 12, 2016, Lot 98. - Claudine and Christoph Eichele (1952–2020 & 1949–2026), Brotte-lès-Luxeuil. - Eichele Estate. The bowls known as “àgéré Ifá” are among the most significant ritual objects of the Yoruba people. They are used by divination priests to hold the 16 sacred palm nuts employed in consulting the Ifá oracle. A characteristic feature is the artistic combination of vessel and figurative sculpture. The bowl often rests on three-dimensionally rendered human or animal figures, whose diverse depictions refer to Yoruba myths, proverbs, and religious beliefs. The motifs can express both the spiritual significance of the oracle consultation and the personal concerns of the patron. This bowl depicts a rooster seizing a snake with its beak. This recurring motif in Yoruba art can be understood as a symbol of struggle, competition, and the dangers of rash action. In the context of the Ifá oracle, it can also be interpreted as a warning to exercise prudence and to avert impending disaster in a timely manner. On the sides, two artfully intertwined, ribbed braided knots frame the scene and simultaneously serve as supports for the bowl. Such braided motifs are widespread in Yoruba art and are associated, among other things, with continuity and stability. Similar, richly decorated bowls are also used in courtly and ceremonial settings. There, they serve as prestige vessels for presenting kola nuts to guests or for holding offerings on shrines. Further reading: Abiodun, Rowland / Drewal, Henry / Pemberton, John (1991). Yoruba Art and Aesthetics in Nigeria. Zurich: Museum Rietberg. -------------------------------- Claudine Eichele (1952–2020) and Christophe Eichele (1949–2026) As the daughter of René and Denise David, the founders of Galerie Walu in Basel, Claudine Eichele was familiar with non-European art from an early age. From 1970 to 1990, she worked full-time at the gallery and undertook several trips to Africa in the 1980s. She subsequently remained associated with the gallery on and off and on a part-time basis. Christophe Eichele worked as an independent entrepreneur and marketing specialist. In addition, he was involved for many years in fundraising and marketing for the Swiss aid organization Brücke · Le pont. The couple spent their retirement in Brotte, France, where the collection they had built together also found a home. CHF 500 / 1,000 Weight in grams: 518 Condition: One loop of a braided knot has been reattached; a hairline crack in the bowl has been professionally restored. -------------------------------- 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.