78 - Headdress, "isicholo"

Headdress, "isicholo" Zulu. South Africa Without base Cotton on plant fiber, dyed with ochre. H 15 cm. Ø 45 cm. Provenance: - Galerie Walu, Zurich. - Patrick Lo Giudice, Zurich. - Hammer Auctions, Basel, June 12, 2018, Lot 73. - Claudine and Christoph Eichele (1952–2020 & 1949–2026), Brotte-lès-Luxeuil. - Eichele Community of Heirs. The isicholo was a visible symbol of marital status and played an important role in wedding ceremonies. It was originally made from woven plant fibers, human hair, and red ochre mixed with fat. The hair could come from the wearer herself or from women in her family and social circle. The hats were traditionally worn by married women and served as an expression of their social status as well as their connection to their husband’s family. Headbands worn in addition to the hats could serve as a sign of respect toward the male members of his family. Over time, various manufacturing techniques developed, increasingly incorporating textile materials such as cotton. In one of these variations, a circular, woven framework was covered with a cotton cloth, which was tied together at the top. Carefully executed embroidery created concentric circular patterns that extended from the center of the hat to the rim. While the isicholo was once part of the traditional attire of married women, today it is worn primarily at weddings, celebrations, and other special occasions. Further Reading: Falgayrettes-Leveau, Christiane (2003). Parures de tête. Paris: Editions Dapper. -------------------------------- 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 its home. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 750 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 as possible of its condition. 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 prior to 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.