HAMMER 134 / Afrikanische Ethnographie

Lot 1 - A Monolith Monolith Sahara Mit Sockel / with base Stone. H 56 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 3060 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 2 - A Berber Head Ornament (Headband) Head ornament (headband) Berber, Morocco Ohne Sockel / without base Silver, enamel, coral. H 16.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. Further reading: Draguet, Michel (2021). Mémoires berbères. Des bijoux et des femmes au Maroc, Bruxelles: Fonds Mercator. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 255 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age etc., if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 3 - An Egyptian Choker with filigree crescent pendants, "kirdan" Choker necklace, "kirdan" Egypt Ohne Sockel / without base Brass, iron, textile. L 42 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 164 Condition: Velcro closure The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 4 - 35 Djenne Strands of Terracotta Beads 35 strands of terracotta beads Djenne, Mali Ohne Sockel / without base Terracotta. L 31 - 56 cm. Provenance: - Galerie Walu, Zurich. - 1991: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The age of identical clay beads was determined to be 700 years (+/- 25 %) using the thermoluminescence method. ----------------------------------------------------- Jewelry in various forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Borel, France (1999). Jewelry. Treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania and America. From the Ghysels Collection. Ostfildern-Ruit: Hatje Cantz. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 268 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 5 - A Bozo Terracotta Woman Seat, "por tî" Terracotta woman seat, "por tî" Bozo, Mali Ohne Sockel / without base Terracotta. H 18 cm. Provenance: - According to handwritten note on label: Galerie Africana, Antonio Fiacco, Zurich (2002). - Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The ancient city of Djenné was founded around 800 AD and belonged to the Ghana Empire. It was the most important trading post for caravans crossing the Sahara and thus also a link between Black Africa and the Mediterranean. Since 1943, terracotta and metal objects have been found in the region of this city as a result of river course changes. Although this region was already Islamized at that time, figurative art obviously developed there in parallel. Although terracotta objects from the Djenné are not completely unknown, based on the current state of research, no reliable information can be given about the purpose of this representation. Scientific analyses date the finds between the beginning of the 11th century and the end of the 17th century. Further reading: Phillips, Tom (1996). Africa. The art of a continent. Munich: Prestel Verlag. p. 485 ff. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 3926 Condition: Outer edge of the seat visibly damaged and glued in one place (see photos). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 6 - A Dogon Ladder, "bilu" Ladder, "bilu" Dogon, Mali Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 223 cm. Provenance: - Gottfried Honegger (1917-2016), Zurich. - Community of heirs Gottfried Honegger, Zurich. IMPORTANT NOTICE: Please contact us prior to purchase regarding shipping. The cost of delivery may be higher than expected due to the size and weight of the item. IMPORTANT NOTE: Please contact us prior to purchase regarding shipping. The cost of delivery may be higher than expected due to the size and weight of the item. -------------------------------------------- Stepladders made from a single tree trunk are still used today in many parts of Africa - for example in Burkina Faso by the Lobi and Senufo and in Mali by the Dogon. The utensils are used to overcome height differences, such as water holes or rocks, as ladders to reach the high openings of the storage buildings, or as stairs in the nested dwellings, on whose flat roofs various goods are stored and dried. The forks prevented the leaning ladder from turning. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 34000 Condition: A square iron tube for a base is embedded at the lower end, but this is no longer present. -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 7 - A Fulani Pair of Ear Ornaments, "kwoteneye kange" Pair of ear ornaments, "kwoteneye kange" Peul / Fulani, Mali Ohne Sockel / without base Brass with a high gold finish, textile thread. W 20 - 20.5 cm. Provenance: - Austrian private collection, Vienna. - Gallery Walu, Zurich. - 2017: Swiss private collection, Schwyz. One such pair of earrings was described by Timothy F. Garrard in "Gold of Africa" in 1989 as follows: Pair of hammered and twisted gold earrings consisting of four lobes, each lightly engraved with abstract designs. The suspension bands are covered with scarlet thread, which protects the ears from injury while at the same time enhancing the dramatic effect of these ornaments. These are of Peul workmanship from the region of Jenne, probably from the first half of the 20th century. Such large earrings are called kwotene kange, pl. kwoteneje kange (Peul), hortonde weeba or foori (Tukulor), feeta or tolomi (Sonrai), tado karanye (Sarakole). See: Garrard, Timothy F. (1989). African gold. Jewelry, insignia and amulets from Ghana, Mali, Senegal and the Ivory Coast from the Barbier-Mueller Collection. Munich: Prestel. Page 221. ----------------------------------------------------- Women receive such pieces of jewelry as bridal gifts or heirlooms. Attached with strings over the head (also over the ears, depending on the case) or in the hair, the ornaments are publicly visible symbols of wealth and status. The impressive earrings are made by experienced blacksmiths from prefabricated metal plates. Various hammers are used to shape the heated raw material into the desired form (beaten, bent and twisted), which can be decorated with delicate patterns (punched, embossed, chased and/or engraved) once it has cooled. Further reading: Ross, Doran H. et al. (2008). The gold of the Akan. Museum Liaunig. Neuhaus: Museum Administration Ltd. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 250 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 8 - A Bamana Woven Fabric, "bògòlanfini" (mud-dyed cloth) Woven fabric, "bògòlanfini" (mud-dyed cloth) Bamana, Mali Ohne Sockel / without base Cotton. W 107 cm. L 183 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Wrap robe called "Bologan" or "bògòlanfini" (literally translated as "mud cloth"). The name refers to the fact that the textile gets its characteristic coloration from being treated with fermented mud. The weaving of the 15 cm wide individual strips, which are joined together at the end to form a cloth, is reserved for men. The dyeing, and thus the design of the geometric patterns, is usually done by the women. They apply mud and sap, which is obtained from leaves and tree bark, to the cotton fabric. The high iron content of the slip clay then dyes the treated areas black. According to current literature, in addition to its function as a status symbol, the cloth also has a protective function and is worn by hunters, for example, and also serves women in transitional phases, such as initiation rites or after childbirth, as a protective "cover" that can ward off harmful forces. Recently, the unmistakable patterns have become a symbol of Mali's cultural identity and are used worldwide in fashion, the visual arts and decoration. Further reading: Clarke, Duncan (1997). The art of African textiles. London: Promotional Reprint Compagny. Page 86ff. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 836 Condition: Visible signs of use. Four burn holes (two visible and two restored with a patch). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 9 - A Kuba Flute and a Bwa Flute, "mpiru" 2 flutes Cuba and Bwa, DR Congo and Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 35,5 - 36 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Aerophones are found in many variations throughout Africa, with regionally homogeneous forms enabling a clear geographical classification. The extremely popular instruments are played in different ways depending on the occasion: for themselves or for listeners, individually or in a group, for entertainment or ritually, on the occasion of initiations, celebrations, weddings, births, funerals, etc., or even when hunting to give signals and communicate. The majority of flutes are the personal property of men. They generally receive their first flute on the occasion of their own initiation or as a gift, for example at their engagement. In the simpler form, the handy pipes can be carved by the men themselves, while the more noble versions, both in terms of shape and material, are produced by skilled and paid carvers. The design of the African notch flutes usually allows only two to three notes to be played at different intervals. Accompanied by other flutes, this creates complex monotonous melodies that are close in sound to the local languages. As a result, the nuanced tone sequences can be understood like spoken words according to common literature. The most frequently encountered are notched flutes carved from wood with a cross hole, two or three finger holes and air vents. Rarer are those made of ivory, bone or metal, as well as specimens that are supplemented with other materials such as leather. The almost invariably abstract forms often depict anthropo-zoomorphic hybrid creatures that combine female and male attributes. Worn as jewelry on hanging holes, the instruments are also status symbols and external signs of the owner's rank and affiliation. Particularly valuable notched flutes are well-preserved examples which, in addition to their provenance, age and rarity, also show visible signs of use and a patina that has developed over the years, encrusted and/or shiny, in nuanced brown to black tones. Further reading: Brown, E. (1999). Turn up the Volume. Los Angeles: UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 469 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 10 - 3 Bwa Flutes, "mpiru" 3 notch flutes, "mpiru" Bwa, Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, leather. H 18 - 22,5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Aerophones are found in many variations throughout Africa, whereby regionally homogeneous forms allow a clear geographical classification. The extremely popular instruments are played in different ways depending on the occasion: for themselves or for listeners, individually or in a group, for entertainment or ritually, on the occasion of initiations, celebrations, weddings, births, funerals, etc., or even when hunting to give signals and communicate. The majority of flutes are the personal property of men. They generally receive their first flute on the occasion of their own initiation or as a gift, for example at their engagement. In the simpler form, the handy pipes can be carved by the men themselves, while the more noble versions, both in terms of shape and material, are produced by skilled and paid carvers. The design of the African notch flutes usually allows only two to three notes to be played at different intervals. Accompanied by other flutes, this creates complex monotonous melodies that are close in sound to the local languages. As a result, the nuanced tone sequences can be understood like spoken words according to common literature. The most frequently encountered are notched flutes carved from wood with a cross hole, two or three finger holes and air vents. Rarer are those made of ivory, bone or metal, as well as specimens that are supplemented with other materials such as leather. The almost invariably abstract forms often depict anthropo-zoomorphic hybrid creatures that combine female and male attributes. Worn as jewelry on hanging holes, the instruments are also status symbols and external signs of the owner's rank and affiliation. Particularly valuable notched flutes are well-preserved examples which, in addition to their provenance, age and rarity, also show visible signs of use and a patina that has developed over the years, encrusted and/or shiny, in nuanced brown to black tones. Further reading: Brown, E. (1999). Turn up the Volume. Los Angeles: UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 206 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 11 - A Nuna Flute Notch flute Gurunsi (Nuna), Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 91.5 cm. Provenance: - Jean David. Acquired in situ before 1991. - Galerie Walu, Zurich. - 2003: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Aerophones are found in many variations throughout Africa, with regionally homogeneous forms enabling a clear geographical classification. The extremely popular instruments are played in different ways depending on the occasion: for themselves or for listeners, individually or in a group, for entertainment or ritually, on the occasion of initiations, celebrations, weddings, births, funerals, etc., or even when hunting to give signals and communicate. The majority of flutes are the personal property of men. They generally receive their first flute on the occasion of their own initiation or as a gift, for example at their engagement. In the simpler form, the handy pipes can be carved by the men themselves, while the more noble versions, both in terms of shape and material, are produced by skilled and paid carvers. The design of the African notch flutes usually allows only two to three notes to be played at different intervals. Accompanied by other flutes, this creates complex monotonous melodies that are close in sound to the local languages. As a result, the nuanced tone sequences can be understood like spoken words according to common literature. The most frequently encountered are notched flutes carved from wood with a cross hole, two or three finger holes and air vents. Rarer are those made of ivory, bone or metal, as well as specimens that are supplemented with other materials such as leather. The almost invariably abstract forms often depict anthropo-zoomorphic hybrid creatures that combine female and male attributes. Worn as jewelry on hanging holes, the instruments are also status symbols and external signs of the owner's rank and affiliation. Particularly valuable notched flutes are well-preserved examples which, in addition to their provenance, age and rarity, also show visible signs of use and a patina that has developed over the years, encrusted and/or shiny, in nuanced brown to black tones. Further reading: Brown, E. (1999). Turn up the Volume. Los Angeles: UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 368 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 12 - A Bamileke Flute Notch flute Bamileke, Cameroon, Cameroon grassland Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 27 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Aerophones are found in many variations throughout Africa, whereby regionally homogeneous forms allow a clear geographical classification. The extremely popular instruments are played in different ways depending on the occasion: for themselves or for listeners, individually or in a group, for entertainment or ritually, on the occasion of initiations, celebrations, weddings, births, funerals, etc., or even when hunting to give signals and communicate. The majority of flutes are the personal property of men. They generally receive their first flute on the occasion of their own initiation or as a gift, for example at their engagement. In the simpler form, the handy pipes can be carved by the men themselves, while the more noble versions, both in terms of shape and material, are produced by skilled and paid carvers. The design of the African notch flutes usually allows only two to three notes to be played at different intervals. Accompanied by other flutes, this creates complex monotonous melodies that are close in sound to the local languages. As a result, the nuanced tone sequences can be understood like spoken words according to common literature. The most frequently encountered are notched flutes carved from wood with a cross hole, two or three finger holes and air vents. Rarer are those made of ivory, bone or metal, as well as specimens that are supplemented with other materials such as leather. The almost invariably abstract forms often depict anthropo-zoomorphic hybrid creatures that combine female and male attributes. Worn as jewelry on hanging holes, the instruments are also status symbols and external signs of the owner's rank and affiliation. Particularly valuable notched flutes are well-preserved examples which, in addition to their provenance, age and rarity, also show visible signs of use and a patina that has developed over the years, encrusted and/or shiny, in nuanced brown to black tones. Further reading: Brown, E. (1999). Turn up the Volume. Los Angeles: UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 80 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 13 - 4 bracelets 4 bracelets Gurunsi / Frafra / Kapsiki, Burkina Faso / Cameroon Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. W 9.5 - 11 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Borel, France (1999). Jewelry. Treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania and America. From the Ghysels Collection. Ostfildern-Ruit: Hatje Cantz. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 2504 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 14 - 2 Kru Pre-Coinage Currencies, "nitien" 2 pre-coinage currencies, "nitien" Kru, Liberia / Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. B 15 - 20 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Due to the value of the processed raw materials, so-called primitive money was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Victor, Robert (1986). Monnaies Premières. Wormhout: Robert Victor. Cf.: Ballarini, Roberto (2009). The Perfect Form. On the Track of African Tribal Currency. Milan: Galleria Africa Curio. Page 126. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 5255 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 15 - 3 Mossi Anklets, "kobré" 3 anklets, "kobré" Mossi, Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. B 10 - 12 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Glar, Wilfried (2002). African maturity. Attempt at an overview (5 volumes). Self-published. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 979 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 16 - 2 Jukun Bracelets 2 bracelets Jukun, Nigeria Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. W 10 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Volprecht, Klaus (1989). Africa. Doetsch Collection. Exhibition catalog at the Rautenstrauch- Joest Museum. Druck- und Verlagshaus Wienand, Cologne. See page 60. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 435 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 17 - 4 Gurunsi Bracelets 4 bracelets Gurunsi, Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. B 6.5 - 10 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural point of view, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Glar, Wilfried (2002). African maturity. Attempt at an overview (5 volumes). Self-published. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 1200 Condition: The condition

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 18 - 7 Bracelets and an Anklet 7 bracelets and an anklet Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. W 6 - 11,5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Borel, France (1999). Jewelry. Treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania and America. From the Ghysels Collection. Ostfildern-Ruit: Hatje Cantz. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 150 / 300 Weight in grams: 2196 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 150 - 300 CHF

Lot 19 - 5 Bracelets 5 bracelets Kurumba / Gurunsi / Gurma, Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. B 9 - 10,5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Glar, Wilfried (2002). African maturity. Attempt at an overview (5 volumes). Self-published. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 150 / 300 Weight in grams: 3004 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 150 - 300 CHF

Lot 20 - 2 Gurunsi anklets 2 anklets Gurunsi, Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. H 12.5 - 19 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Glar, Wilfried (2002). African maturity. Attempt at an overview (5 volumes). Self-published. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 1333 Condition: Left visibly damaged (see photos). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 21 - A Gurunsi Bracelet Bracelet Gurunsi, Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy. Ø 9 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural point of view, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Glar, Wilfried (2002). African maturity. Attempt at an overview (5 volumes). Self-published. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 1490 Condition: The condition of this lot

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 22 - A Nupe Pair of Bracelets Pair of bracelets Igbo / Nupe, Nigeria Ohne Sockel / without base Copper. H 17 cm. Ø 10 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Inventory numbers "30264" and "30265" (see photos) / Inventory numbers "30264" and "30265" (see photos). ----------------------------------------------------- Jewelry in various forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Glar, Wilfried (2002). African maturity. Attempt at an overview (5 volumes). Self-published. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family's possession ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" will be donated to

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 23 - A Lobi Iron Snake Snake representation Lobi, Burkina Faso Ohne Sockel / without base Iron. H 8 cm. L 29 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from the moment they met in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 448 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 24 - A Lobi Miniature Charm Figurative amulet Lobi, Burkina Faso Mit Sockel / with base Wood. H 12 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Surrounding oneself with attractive objects has always been an essential concern of all peoples. The pursuit of beauty also comes to the fore in the design of artfully crafted everyday objects. The creative will to create perfect solutions in the fusion of technical-practical and formal-aesthetic functions has produced astonishingly fascinating solutions over the generations. Further reading: Jean Paul Delcourt & Giovanni Franco Scanzi (1987). Potomo Waka. 1987: Milano: Editions Lediberg. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 30 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tear, any other damage and signs of age, etc., if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 25 - A Senufo percussion instrument (gong) Percussion idiophone Senufo, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Iron. H 29,5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Impact idiophones are used throughout Africa in a variety of forms as rhythm, effect or signal instruments. Cf.: Blandin, André (1992). Fer noir d'Afrique de l'ouest. Salon-de-Provence: B. Amignon. Page 161. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 1714 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 26 - A Senufo Drum, "pliwo'o" standing drum, "pliwo'o" Senufo, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, leather, cord. H 112 cm. W 39 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Drums were played on the occasion of social events and religious rituals by dignitaries and members of the Poro secret societies. Multi-legged standing drums such as this one were usually accompanied by xylophones, horns, trumpets and bell rings, which were worn on the wrists or ankles. Further reading: Meyer, Andres (1997). African drums. Berlin: Museum of Ethnology. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 11400 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age etc., if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 300 - 600 CHF

Lot 27 - A Senufo Drum, "pliwo'o" standing drum, "pliwo'o" Senufo, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, leather, iron. H 94 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Inventory number on the underside of the drum rim "Nᵒ 38 Senoufo" (see photo). Inventory number on the underside of the drum rim "Nᵒ 38 Senoufo" (see photo). -------------------------------------------- Drums were played on the occasion of social events and religious rituals by dignitaries and members of the Poro secret societies. Multi-legged standing drums like this one were usually used in combination with xylophones, horns, trumpets and bell rings, which were worn on the wrists or ankles. The figurative decorations carved in semi-relief originate from Senufo mythology. Further reading: Meyer, Andres (1997). African drums. Berlin: Museum of Ethnology. -------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 1100 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age etc., if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 28 - A Senufo Seat, "kafwokonkolo" Seat, "kafwokonkolo" Senufo, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. H 82.5 cm. (Seat height: 44 cm.) W 61 cm. Provenance: Helmut (1931-2021) and Marianne Zimmer, Zurich. The combination of the useful and the beautiful is particularly evident in the artistically designed seating. The shapes of the African seats are just as varied as their use. Simple seats hewn from a block of wood are juxtaposed with complex composite chairs and royal thrones. Elementary forms of the purest functionality are juxtaposed with richly ornamented works adorned with figurative carvings. From the market woman to the ruler, they are used for comfortable or functional sitting and can also be symbols of wealth, dignity and power that take a firm place in ceremonies and ritual acts. The seats, which are generally personally owned, may be kept as memorabilia by surviving relatives until no one can remember the former owners. Further reading: Bocola, Sandro (1994). African seats. Munich, Prestel Verlag. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 6800 Condition: Backrest damaged at both disk-shaped end pieces: a broken piece is glued on the left; a small piece is missing on the right (see photos). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 29 - 2 Senufo amulets, "nambèlè" 2 amulets, "nambèlè" Senufo, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. H 4 - 5 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. The anthropomorphic representations usually stood for twins, who were the bearers of special powers due to their affinity with spiritual beings. Special caution and veneration was also required because they could bring about both good and bad things during their lifetime. The small pendants were worn on a ribbon, sometimes sewn onto leather, e.g. on the hip or chest. Further reading: Förster, Till (1988). The art of the Senufo. Zurich: Museum Rietberg. ----------------------------------------------------- Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Loui

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 30 - A Senufo Seat, "kolo" Seat, "kolo" Senufo, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron (pin). H 13.5 cm. W 29 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. The combination of the useful and the beautiful is particularly evident in the artistically designed seating. The shapes of the African seats are as varied as their use. Simple seats hewn from a block of wood are juxtaposed with complex composite chairs and royal thrones. Elementary forms of the purest functionality are juxtaposed with richly ornamented works adorned with figurative carvings. From the market woman to the ruler, they are used for comfortable or functional sitting and can also be symbols of wealth, dignity and power, taking a firm place in ceremonies and ritual acts. The seats, which are generally personally owned, may be kept as memorabilia by surviving relatives until no one can remember the former owners. Further reading: Bocola, Sandro (1994). African seats. Munich, Prestel Verlag. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 900 Condition: One leg is only fixed with a nail (see photos). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 31 - 2 Senufo Seats, "kolo" 2 seats, "kolo" Senufo, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 16 - 20 cm. Provenance: Swiss private collection, Basel. The combination of the useful and the beautiful is particularly evident in the artistically designed seating. The shapes of the African seats are just as varied as their use. Simple seats hewn from a block of wood are juxtaposed with complexly assembled chairs and royal thrones. Elementary forms of the purest functionality are juxtaposed with richly ornamented works adorned with figurative carvings. From the market woman to the ruler, they are used for comfortable or functional sitting and can also be symbols of wealth, dignity and power that take a firm place in ceremonies and ritual acts. The seats, which are generally personally owned, may be kept as memorabilia by surviving relatives until no one can remember the former owners. Further reading: Bocola, Sandro (1994). African seats. Munich, Prestel Verlag. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 5000 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 32 - A Baule Jewelery Piece, Disc, "tadae" Jewelry disc, "tadae Baule, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Gold alloy, glass beads. Ø 6.5 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Disc-shaped jewelry elements ("tadae"), also known as soul-bearer's discs, are worn individually or in combination with others as necklaces. The sun symbol allegorically stands for the radiant soul of the ruler and is said to protect the wearer from harm. ----------------------------------------------------- For centuries, the valuable precious metal from the former "Gold Coast" of Africa was the object of interest and desire of African and European merchants. Trade led to the rise of powerful states whose wealth and skill in gold processing became legendary. The local royal courts produced masterful pieces of jewelry, many of which were made using the lost wax technique. Even today, gold jewelry serves as a sign of the royal families' rank and affiliation. The powerful expressiveness of these unique pieces reflects the rich metaphors of the Akan and is based on the tradition of the highly esteemed art of oratory. The motifs depicted always refer to people, animals or objects that allegorically represent praiseworthy qualities and sayings. Further reading: Ross, Doran and Eisner, Georg (2008). The gold of the Akan. Museum Liaunig. Neuhaus: Museum Administration Ltd. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 21 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 33 - A Baule Pendant, "srala" Pendant, "srala Baule, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Gold alloy of low fineness with a surface of higher fineness. H 4 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Flat, rectangular decorative elements ("srala") depict miniatures of woven shields or woven doors. Worn on the chest, the valuable piece of jewelry protects the wearer ("shield bead") and symbolizes that they can open or close themselves to the other person depending on the situation ("door bead"). ----------------------------------------------------- For centuries, the valuable precious metal from the former "Gold Coast" of Africa was the object of interest and desire of African and European merchants. Trade led to the rise of powerful states whose wealth and skill in gold processing became legendary. The local royal courts produced masterful pieces of jewelry, many of which were made using the lost wax technique. Even today, gold jewelry serves as a sign of the royal families' rank and affiliation. The powerful expressiveness of these unique pieces reflects the rich metaphors of the Akan and is based on the tradition of the highly esteemed art of oratory. The motifs depicted always refer to people, animals or objects that allegorically represent praiseworthy qualities and sayings. Further reading: Ross, Doran and Eisner, Georg (2008). The gold of the Akan. Museum Liaunig. Neuhaus: Museum Administration Ltd. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 10 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may purchase the lot for a full

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 34 - A Baule Royal Necklace, "komignammon" Courtly necklace, "komignammon" Baule, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloys. L 45.5 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural point of view, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Borel, France (1999). Jewelry. Treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania and America. From the Ghysels Collection. Ostfildern-Ruit: Hatje Cantz. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" will be presented to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 35 - A Baule Group of Figures, Handycraft Group of figures, Handicraft Baule, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy. H 7 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 83 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 36 - A Djimini Heddle Pulley Pulley Djimini, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, cord. H 13 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Surrounding themselves with attractive objects was a fundamental concern of the peoples of the Ivory Coast, which is particularly evident in the artistically designed everyday objects, such as weaving roll holders. The pulley is part of the narrow-belt loom. It was used to anchor the roller, through the central groove of which ran the connecting cord of two so-called heddle rods, with the help of which the warp threads could be raised and lowered. Further reading: Schaedler, Karl-Ferdinand (1987). Weaving in Africa south of the Sahara. Munich: Panterra Verlag. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 58 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 37 - 2 Dan Necklaces 2 bronze necklaces Dan / Wè-Guéré, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Yellow cast, glass beads. H 22.5 - 43.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Published: Linkes: Gérald Minkoff (1997). Au quotidien sublime. Lausanne: Musée des arts décoratifs. #49. Exhibited: Lausanne: Musée des arts décoratifs. Au quotidien sublime. Gérald Minkoff et Muriel Olesen: un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionnels en Afrique. 27.09 - 09.11.1997. Left necklace by Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen 1997 in the exhibition catalog "Au quotidien sublime. Un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionels d'Afrique" as follows: "DAN, WE DE LA RÉGION DU HAUT-CAVALLY, CÔTE D'IVOIRE, LIBERIA. Collier de prestige pour femme ou homme. Motif en dent de léopard pour les perles en alliage de cuivre, fondues à la cire perdue, perles de verre bleues." ----------------------------------------------------- Jewelry in a wide variety of shapes and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural perspective, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Borel, France (1999). Jewelry. Treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania and America. From the Ghysels Collection. Ostfildern-Ruit: Hatje Cantz. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 2654 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 38 - 15 Dan, Baule and Gurunsi Bronze Artifacts 15 small bronzes Dan, Baule, Gurunsi, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy. L 2 - 11 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 336 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 39 - 12 Akan figurative gold weights 12 figurative gold weights Akan, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy. L 1.5 - 9 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. The weights of the Akan peoples on the former Gold Coast were in use from around 1400 to 1900. Their name does not refer to the material they were made of, but to their function of weighing gold dust, which was also used as a means of payment. Until the end of the 19th century, gold dust was therefore actively traded by the Asante and related peoples in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Special spoons ("saawa"), usually made of sheet brass, were used to remove the gold dust ("sikafuturo") from a container ("adaka", "kuduo" etc.) in order to weigh it on a beam balance ("nsania") with the help of counterweights ("abrammoo" / "mrammou, "abrammuo" etc.). The gold weights were made from copper alloys using the lost wax technique (also known as "cire perdue" or "lost mold"). The early metal castings were mainly geometric in design, and it was not until the 16th century that figurative weights appeared. These "newer" weights were still intended for practical use and, as prestige weights, usually depicted Akan proverbs. In 1899, the use of gold dust as a means of payment was banned by the British in Ghana. Further reading: Niangoran-Bouah, Georges (1984). L'univers Akan des poids a peser l'or / The Akan World of Gold Weights. Abidjan: Les Nouvelles Editions Africaines. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 482 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers can

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 40 - 21 Akan geometric Goldweights 21 geometric goldweights Akan, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy. L 1,5 - 3 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. The weights of the Akan peoples on the former Gold Coast were in use from around 1400 to 1900. Their name does not refer to the material they were made of, but to their function of weighing gold dust, which was also used as a means of payment. Until the end of the 19th century, gold dust was therefore actively traded by the Asante and related peoples in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Special spoons ("saawa"), usually made of sheet brass, were used to remove the gold dust ("sikafuturo") from a container ("adaka", "kuduo" etc.) in order to weigh it on a beam balance ("nsania") with the help of counterweights ("abrammoo" / "mrammou, "abrammuo" etc.). The gold weights were made from copper alloys using the lost wax technique (also known as "cire perdue" or "lost mold"). The early metal castings were mainly geometric in design, and it was not until the 16th century that figurative weights appeared. These "newer" weights were still intended for practical use and, as prestige weights, usually depicted Akan proverbs. In 1899, the use of gold dust as a means of payment was banned by the British in Ghana. Further reading: Niangoran-Bouah, Georges (1984). L'univers Akan des poids a peser l'or / The Akan World of Gold Weights. Abidjan: Les Nouvelles Editions Africaines. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 347 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers can

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 41 - A Dan Seat Seat of a notable Dan, Côte d'Ivoire Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. H 39 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The combination of the useful and the beautiful is particularly evident in the artistically designed seating. The shapes of the African seats are just as varied as their use. Simple seats hewn from a block of wood are juxtaposed with complex composite chairs and royal thrones. Elementary forms of the purest functionality are juxtaposed with richly ornamented works adorned with figurative carvings. From the market woman to the ruler, they are used for comfortable or functional sitting and can also be symbols of wealth, dignity and power, taking a firm place in ceremonies and ritual acts. The seats, which are generally personally owned, may be kept as memorabilia by surviving relatives until no one can remember the former owners. Further reading: Bocola, Sandro (1994). African seats. Munich, Prestel Verlag. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 2400 Condition: Left end piece of the backrest broken off and glued on (see photos, especially the visible crack). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 300 - 600 CHF

Lot 42 - An Asante Royal Throne, "asipim" Courtly throne, "asipim" Asante, Ghana Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, copper alloy, iron, leather. H 93.5 cm. Provenance: - Galerie Walu, Zurich. - Andreas Vontobel (1931-2011), Waltalingen. Chair of a royal court called asipim ("I am steadfast"). The seats reserved for high-ranking notables are still a symbol of dignity and power today. They are the most important regalia of the Asante rulers. Depending on the situation, their role varies from a simple utilitarian object to a symbol of the entire state. There is a very special intimacy between owner and seat: Asante wisdom says that there are no secrets between them. The seats are kept as memorabilia by the bereaved until no one can remember the former owners. Further reading: Bocola, Sandro (1994). African seats. Munich, Prestel Verlag. CHF 1 000 / 2 000 Weight in grams: 13300 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 1 000 - 2 000 CHF

Lot 43 - A Fante Drum Standing drum Akan, Fante, Ghana Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, leather, cord. H 84 cm. Provenance: Galerie Walu, Basel. The Akan peoples are a group of linguistically and culturally related peoples who live mainly in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Among the best known are the Asante, Fante, Akuapem, Akyem, Kwahu and Baule. Barrel-shaped drums such as the one offered here are owned by music and dance societies, which used them at celebrations and other social events such as funerals, to entertain the audience and as rhythm instruments during dance performances. Barrel-shaped drums like the one offered here are owned by music and dance societies and are used at various celebrations and social events. They are used to entertain the audience and act as rhythm instruments during dance performances. The breasts refer to the drum's role as the "mother" of the ensemble, and the surrounding relief carvings illustrate general proverbs, political statements or satirical thoughts. The breasts on the drum indicate its role as the "mother" of the ensemble. The surrounding relief carvings illustrate general proverbs, political statements or satire and contribute to the cultural and social significance of the instrument. Further reading: Meyer, Andres (1997). African drums. Berlin: Museum of Ethnology. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 12500 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age, etc., if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 300 - 600 CHF

Lot 44 - An Adja Power Object (Horn) Power object (horn) Adja / Fon, Benin Mit Sockel / with base Horn, glass, cowrie snails, various fetish materials. H 29 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Power objects of this kind are materialized interfaces between this-worldly and supernatural forces that are used to promote the good and avert the negative. They were ritually discussed and sacrificed by priests, which gave them the power to fulfill certain orders addressed to them. For example, they protect the community from unwanted spirits or individuals from impending disaster. Further reading: Chesi, Gert (1997). The medicine of the black gods. Innsbruck: Haymon Verlag. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1037 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 45 - A Dinka Tobacco Pipe, "dack" Tobacco pipe, "dack" Dinka, Sudan Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, copper alloy. H 12, 5 cm. L 66 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Across Africa, women and men use smoking instruments for the pleasurable consumption of tobacco. While the simple pipes served only the primary purpose of smoking and were more easily accessible, particularly elaborately designed tobacco pipes were the privilege of wealthy notables and rulers. Further reading: Cremer, Wolfgang (2004). Pipes, hemp and tobacco in sub-Saharan Africa. Baum Publications. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 726 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age, etc., if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 300 - 600 CHF

Lot 46 - A Yoruba Divination Tray ("opon-ifa"), Lid of a Bowl Oracle board ("opon-ifa"), Lid of a bowl Yoruba, Nigeria Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 40 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Throughout the Yoruba region, oracle consultations with and by ifa priests are an important institution. People seeking help turn to the priest for advice on personal or higher-level matters. During the consultation, the priest knocks on the board with a mallet to attract the attention of orunmila, the deity to whom the request for divination is addressed. He then throws palm nuts according to a precisely prescribed pattern. The oracle board opon-ifa is a kind of notepad for combinations of throws to be interpreted later. The ifa boards are characterized by their flat shape and the edge carved with figures and geometric patterns. The face on the edge of the board represents eshu, who also acts as the messenger of the gods. This is a lid of a container called an "opon igede Ifa" (missing) in which priests called "babalawo" also kept divination utensils for the ifa oracle (including a bell, an oracle staff, 16 sacred fruit seeds from a palm tree or, as an alternative, a divination necklace, etc.). Further reading: Abiodun, Rowland / Drewal, Henry / Pemberton, John (1991). Yoruba art and aesthetics in Nigeria. Zurich: Museum Rietberg. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 1 000 / 2 000 Weight in grams: 2402 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 1 000 - 2 000 CHF

Lot 47 - A Yoruba Beaded Panel, fixed on a wooden board Panel embroidered with glass beads, fixed on a wooden board Yoruba, Nigeria Ohne Sockel / without base Glass beads. H 24 cm. L 61 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Published: Illustrated: Hainard, Jacques / Kaehr, Roland / Sabelli, Fabrizio / Milliet, Jacqueline / Minkoff, Gérald (1989). Le salon de l'ethnographie. Musée d'ethnographie, Neuchâtel. Such panels were described in 2016 by Peter Liaunig in "Afrikanische Glasperlenkunst. African Beaded Art" as follows: "Beaded panel yata These (...) particularly detailed and precisely designed bead panels without a pocket function are called yata and are usually used in pairs by priests in the cult of the various Yoruba gods. Since the colors gold, silver and blue are associated with the goddess Oshun, it is reasonable to assume that these pieces are dedicated to her." See: Oehrl, Michael / Liaunig, Peter (2016). African glass bead art. African Beaded Art. Museum Liaunig, Neuhaus. Page 102. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1099 Condition: Attached to a wooden plate with three metal pins which can be easily removed. -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 48 - 2 Kirdi beaded aprons 2 glass beaded loincloth aprons Kirdi, Cameroon Ohne Sockel / without base Glass beads, plant fiber, cowrie snails. H 10 - 19 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The colorfully patterned loincloths are worn by women and girls in Cameroon. According to Abrams (1987), they serve not only as a protective covering but also as decorative clothing to attract attention. The diverse patterns can provide clues as to which age group the wearer belongs to and her social status. Further reading: Dubin, Lois Sherr (1987). The History of Beads from 30000 B.C.to the Present. DuMont, Cologne. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 151 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 49 - A Bamileke beaded walking stick Glass bead embroidered walking stick Bamileke, Cameroon, Cameroon grassland Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, glass beads, iron. H 94.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. High-ranking dignitaries, e.g. regional princes, village chiefs or tribal elders - have a rich repertoire of visible symbols of office. These insignia often included elaborately carved staffs of office, which were often passed on as inheritance. The artistically crafted signs of descent, rank, religious affiliation, power and distinction accompany the owners as personal property and are presented publicly on the occasion of performances. In addition to their primary function, the staffs are used in many different ways and their symbolism is complex. Particularly valuable ones are often carefully decorated and sometimes crowned with figures. As extensions of the hand and arm, they are used, for example, as a support, as a protective instrument, for poking, prodding and pushing, for waving or generally to give signs. Furthermore, in ritual use on various occasions, they are also embodiments of the presence of the ancestors. In some places, a dignitary will also swear an oath on them when taking office. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 759 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 50 - A Chamba Pre-Coinage Currency Pre-coinage currency Chamba , Nigeria Ohne Sockel / without base Iron. H 86 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Due to the value of the raw materials used, so-called primitive money was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Ballarini, Roberto (2009). The Perfect Form. On the Track of African Tribal Currency. Milan: Galleria Africa Curio. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 1093 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 51 - An Igbo Smoking Pipe Bowl Tobacco pipe bowl Igbo, Nigeria Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy, iron. L 6 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. It is difficult to say exactly when tobacco began to be smoked in West Africa, but it is certain that it reached sub-Saharan Africa very early on, in the first centuries AD, via trade from North Africa. It is also obvious that the pleasurable consumption of tobacco and the smoking of hemp can still be an essential part of ceremonies and rites to this day, in addition to personal pleasure. Tobacco pipes come in a wide variety of sizes, materials and shapes. As personal possessions of men and women, the various smoking instruments are an outward sign of prestige and wealth. While simple pipes served only the primary purpose of smoking and were more easily accessible, particularly ornate tobacco pipes were the privilege of wealthy notables and rulers. Further reading: Cremer, Wolfgang (2004). Pipes, hemp and tobacco in sub-Saharan Africa. Baum Publications. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 315 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 52 - A Bamileke Smoking Pipe, "kan" Tobacco pipe, "kan" Bamileke, Cameroon, Cameroon grassland Mit Sockel / with base Copper alloy, wood. H 40 cm. Provenance: - Imelda and Paul (1924-2014) Berger-Frei, Riehen. - Berger-Frei community of heirs, Basel. It is difficult to determine in retrospect exactly when tobacco began to be smoked in West Africa, but it is certain that it reached sub-Saharan Africa very early on, in the first centuries AD, via trade from North Africa. It is also obvious that the pleasurable consumption of tobacco and the smoking of hemp can still be an essential part of ceremonies and rites today, in addition to personal pleasure. Tobacco pipes come in a wide variety of sizes, materials and shapes. As personal possessions of men and women, the various smoking instruments are an outward sign of prestige and wealth. While simple pipes served only the primary purpose of smoking and were more easily accessible, particularly ornate tobacco pipes were the privilege of wealthy notables and rulers. Further reading: Cremer, Wolfgang (2004). Pipes, hemp and tobacco in sub-Saharan Africa. Baum Publications. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1629 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 53 - A Bamileke Smoking Pipe, "kan" Tobacco pipe, "kan" Bamileke, Cameroon, Cameroon grassland Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. L 37 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Exhibited: Lausanne: Musée des arts décoratifs. Au quotidien sublime. Gérald Minkoff et Muriel Olesen: un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionnels en Afrique. 27.09 - 09.11.1997. By Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen in 1997 at the exhibition "Au quotidien sublime. Un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionels d'Afrique" as follows: "Pipe cérémonielle à tabac Tikar, nord-ouest du Cameroun, bois, fer et tissu, XIX ou début du XXme siècle, longueur totale 372 mm. Deux parties. Partie suPörieure, long, appar. 222mm., tuyau de fer entouré d'une gaîne en bois ajouré de cinq personnages, les mains sur les hanches et dont un seul qui fait face au fumeur semble féminin. This frise de cariatides is itself placed between two series of cinq lignes parallèles incisées. The lower part, the fourneau, whose largest dimension is 195 mm, is, like the previous part, perforated with a trou that allows for the evacuation of the saliva and the control of the tirage.* Le fourneau est dépourvu de tout décor, si ce n'est une bague reliant celui-ci au corps de la pipe et permettant d'y passer un doigt pour l'avoir bien en main. *Notons que la pipe d'apparat en est dépourvue puisqu'elle n'est pas fonctionelle." -------------------------------------------- It is difficult to say exactly when smoking began in West Africa, but it is certain that tobacco reached sub-Saharan Africa via trade from North Africa very early on, in the first centuries AD. It is also obvious that the pleasurable consumption of tobacco and the smoking of hemp can still be an essential part of ceremonies and rites to this day, in addition to personal pleasure. Tobacco pipes come in a wide variety of sizes, materials and shapes. As personal possessions of men and women, the various smoking instruments are an outward sign of prestige and wealth. While simple pipes served only the primary purpose of smoking and were more easily accessible, particularly ornate tobacco pipes were the privilege of wealthy notables and rulers. Further reading: Cremer, Wolfgang (2004). Pipes, hemp and tobacco in sub-Saharan Africa. Baum Publications. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 377 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 54 - An Ethiopian Salt Bar Currency, "amolye" Pre-coin currency, "amolye" Ethiopia Ohne Sockel / without base Salt, plant fiber. H 7 cm. L 25 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1559 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 55 - A Gurage Shield Leather shield Gurage, Ethiopia Ohne Sockel / without base Leather. Ø 64 cm. Provenance: Private collection in western Switzerland. Shields indicate the status and clan affiliation of the wearer. These protective weapons, usually made of wickerwork, wood or leather, were used for ceremonial rituals, as camouflage when hunting and as a defense in battle. Further reading: Barbier, Jean Paul (author) / Boyer, Alain-Michel / Benitez-Johannot, Purissima (2000). Shields. Africa, Southeast Asia and Oceania. From the Collections of the Barbier-Mueller Museum. Munich: Prestel Publishers. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 2800 Condition: Handle damaged and glued (see photos). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 56 - A Gurage Chopping Board Chopping board Gurage, Ethiopia Mit Sockel / with base Wood. H 49 cm. Provenance: - Galerie Afrique, Alain Dufour, Ramatuelle. - Merton D. Simpson (1928-2013) Collection, New York. - Gallery Walu, Basel. Described at the Merton Simpson Gallery auction "Small and Beautiful Treasures" (17.11. 2012, lot #34 consisting of two pieces) with an estimate of USD 7'500-10'000 as follows: Large Gurague Butcher Block. Ethiopia. This item is from the New York gallery collection of Merton D. Simpson, one of the world's most respected dealers of African and tribal art. Merton D. Simpson Gallery of Tribal and Contemporary Art was established in 1954, with galleries in New York and Paris. For nearly 60 years, Merton D. Simpson has been instrumental in helping individuals and institutions worldwide to build comprehensive, culturally significant collections. At a time when African tribal and Oceanic art was a mystery to most collectors, Merton Simpson was already forging friendships with tribal leaders and establishing business relationships that allowed him access to highly important objects of unquestionable provenance. Now 83, Mr. Simpson is perhaps best known as an African art expert and gallerist, but he is also an accomplished artist in his own right. He was one of few African-American painters to receive recognition in the 1950s, and his works were included in shows at the Guggenheim and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. His prestigious list of public and private clients ranges from The United Nations (NY), The Menil Collection (Houston), Rockefeller Family Collection (NY) and Helena Rubenstein Collection (NY) to old private collections and museums in Europe. His "eye" is famous, and his expertise is highly respected, not only by numerous museum curators, but also by private collectors around the world. Merton D. Simpson is pleased to offer a selection of hand-chosen museum-quality objects of traditional African art from his gallery in the Nov. 17, 2012 auction. Estimate $7,500 - $10,000" CHF 800 / 1 200 Weight in grams: 2117 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 800 - 1 200 CHF

Lot 57 - A Fang Torque (Pre-Coinage Currency), "akure" Jewelry ring (pre-coinage currency), "akure" Fang, Gabon Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy. Ø 18 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Jewelry in a wide variety of forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural point of view, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. Due to the value of the raw materials used, the jewelry was also a store of value and was also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Glar, Wilfried (2002). African maturity. Attempt at an overview (5 volumes). Self-published. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 2

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 58 - A Mongo Anklet (Pre-Coinage Currency), "konga" Leg ornament (pre-coinage currency), "konga" Mongo / Ekonda / Nkutu, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Copper alloy. L 32 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Published: Minkoff, Gérald / Olesen, Muriel (1977). Au quotidien sublime. Un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionels d'Afrique. Figure 44. Exhibited: Lausanne: Musée des arts décoratifs. Au quotidien sublime. Gérald Minkoff et Muriel Olesen: un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionnels en Afrique. 27.09 - 09.11.1997. Jewelry in various forms and materials has always accompanied and fascinated people of all cultures. From a cultural point of view, however, bracelets and anklets, amulets, finger rings and necklaces are much more than just pieces of jewelry. In large parts of Africa, the masterfully crafted jewels are appreciated for their beauty, but the precious ornaments are above all part of religious beliefs. They are therefore testimony to the affiliation, rank and faith of the wearer. Furthermore, healers prescribed the wearing of protective jewelry for recovery or to avert disaster. The treasures were therefore also worn as magical, protective and empowering objects. In addition to local materials such as gold, silver, copper, iron, stone, ivory, shell or resin, popular imported goods (glass, coral, cowrie shells, etc.) were also used to make these valuable unique pieces. Indian stone beads, for example, reached Africa very early on via the trade routes of the Near East. Later, during Murano's heyday between the 16th and 19th centuries, Italian-made glass beads in particular sold like hot cakes. In the areas influenced by Islam, silver was traditionally preferred to gold for jewelry. The reason for this was that this shiny white precious metal was said to be pure and to promise its owner happiness and prosperity. Due to the value of the processed raw materials, the pieces of jewelry were also a store of value and were also used as a means of exchange and payment. These pre-coinage means of payment (so-called primitive money) in standardized forms were traded over long distances. The use of imported manillas made of copper alloys as objects of exchange in Africa dates back to at least the 16th century, when the Portuguese established trading stations in West Africa. Over time, these imported goods were repeatedly melted down and cast or forged into new shapes, with other materials, such as iron, increasingly being traded in the same way. At the beginning of the 20th century, most colonial powers banned these forms of money as a means of payment in order to establish their own currencies. Further reading: Borel, France (1999). Jewelry. Treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania and America. From the Ghysels Collection. Ostfildern-Ruit: Hatje Cantz. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 8700 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age, etc., if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers can purchase the lot for

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 59 - A Kuba lidded box for storing Raphia Fabrics Lidded box for storing Raphia mats Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, wicker, tree bark. H 18 cm. L 66 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The name "Kuba" comes from the Bantu language and means "throwing knife". The Kingdom of Kuba was an association of around 20 Bantu-speaking ethnic groups that ruled autonomously as a political confederation from the 17th to the end of the 19th century, until it lost its autonomy under the pressure of Belgian colonial rule. However, the confederation dominated by the Bushong ruling class still exists today and, in addition to the Bushoong, includes the Ngeende, Ngongo, Kete and Shoowa. The Kuba have a particular fondness for geometric shapes and decorate most utensils and ritual objects with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 3216 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 60 - 2 Kuba Wickerwork Containers with Lids 2 wickerwork containers with lids Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wickerwork, tree bark. H 10 - 27 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The name "Kuba" comes from the Bantu language and means "throwing knife". The Kingdom of Kuba was an association of around 20 Bantu-speaking ethnic groups that ruled autonomously as a political confederation from the 17th to the end of the 19th century, until it lost its autonomy under the pressure of Belgian colonial rule. However, the confederation dominated by the Bushong ruling class still exists today and, in addition to the Bushoong, includes the Ngeende, Ngongo, Kete and Shoowa. The Kuba have a particular fondness for geometric shapes and decorate most utensils and ritual objects with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 554 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 61 - 3 Cuba Clysters and 2 Cuba Palm Wine Drinking Cups 3 enemas and 2 palm wine drinking cups Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 5,5 -28 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The name "Kuba" comes from the Bantu language and means "throwing knife". The Kingdom of Kuba was an association of around 20 Bantu-speaking ethnic groups that ruled autonomously as a political confederation from the 17th to the end of the 19th century, until it lost its autonomy under the pressure of Belgian colonial rule. However, the confederation dominated by the Bushong ruling class still exists today and, in addition to the Bushoong, includes the Ngeende, Ngongo, Kete and Shoowa. The Kuba have a particular fondness for geometric shapes and decorate most utensils and ritual objects with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 250 / 500 Weight in grams: 571 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 250 - 500 CHF

Lot 62 - A Cuba Dance Costume Dance dress Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Tree bark, wood. W 59 cm. L 153 cm. Provenance: - According to the note: Dominique Wohlschlag, Geneva (1990). - Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The name "Kuba" comes from the Bantu language and means "throwing knife". The Kingdom of Kuba was an association of around 20 Bantu-speaking ethnic groups that ruled autonomously as a political confederation from the 17th to the end of the 19th century, until it lost its autonomy under the pressure of Belgian colonial rule. However, the confederation dominated by the Bushong ruling class still exists today and, in addition to the Bushoong, includes the Ngeende, Ngongo, Kete and Shoowa. The Kuba have a particular fondness for geometric shapes and decorate most utensils and ritual objects with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 925 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other detractions and the signs of age etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tear, any other damage and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 63 - A Kuba Belt, "yeemi bushyaam mu-imbiim" Belt, "yeemi bushyaam mu-imbiim" Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Glass beads, cowrie snails, textile. W 11.5 cm. L 179 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Published: Minkoff, Gérald / Olesen, Muriel (1977). Au quotidien sublime. Un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionels d'Afrique. Figure 53. Exhibited: Lausanne: Musée des arts décoratifs. Au quotidien sublime. Gérald Minkoff et Muriel Olesen: un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionnels en Afrique. 27.09 - 09.11.1997. The name "Kuba" comes from the Bantu language and means "throwing knife". The Kingdom of Kuba was an association of around 20 Bantu-speaking ethnic groups that ruled autonomously as a political confederation from the 17th to the end of the 19th century, until it lost its autonomy under the pressure of Belgian colonial rule. However, the confederation dominated by the Bushong ruling class still exists today and, in addition to the Bushoong, includes the Ngeende, Ngongo, Kete and Shoowa. The Kuba have a particular fondness for geometric shapes and decorate most utensils and ritual objects with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. This characteristic is also reflected in the ceremonial jewelry (byoongl), which also includes the stately belts worn by important women and men. The raffia or jute straps worn around the middle of the body are embroidered with glass beads and cowries (lapash), which, due to their function as a means of payment, testify to the wearer's wealth." The popular accessories of the upper class each have specific names and meanings, just like the ornaments on them, with the ceremonial belts serving not only decorative purposes but also to hold together and improve the fit of the wraparound garments. Further reading: Cornet, Joseph-Aurelien (1982). Art Royal Cuba. Milan: Edizioni Sipiel, pp. 202ff. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1439 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 64 - A Kuba Belt, "yeemi bushyaam mu-imbiim" Belt, "yeemi bushyaam mu-imbiim" Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Glass beads, cowrie snails, textile. W 10 cm. L 154.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The name "Kuba" comes from the Bantu language and means "throwing knife". The Kingdom of Kuba was an association of around 20 Bantu-speaking ethnic groups that ruled autonomously as a political confederation from the 17th to the end of the 19th century, until it lost its autonomy under the pressure of Belgian colonial rule. However, the confederation dominated by the Bushong ruling class still exists today and, in addition to the Bushoong, includes the Ngeende, Ngongo, Kete and Shoowa. The Kuba have a particular fondness for geometric shapes and decorate most utensils and ritual objects with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. This characteristic is also reflected in the ceremonial jewelry (byoongl), which also includes the stately belts worn by important women and men. The raffia or jute straps worn around the middle of the body are embroidered with glass beads and cowries (lapash), which, due to their function as a means of payment, testify to the wearer's wealth." The popular accessories of the upper class each have specific names and meanings, just like the ornaments on them, with the ceremonial belts serving not only decorative purposes but also to hold together and improve the fit of the wraparound garments. Further reading: Cornet, Joseph-Aurelien (1982). Art Royal Cuba. Milan: Edizioni Sipiel, pp. 202ff. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 459 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 65 - A Cuba Palm Wine Drinking Cup Palm wine drinking cup Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 18 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The name "Kuba" comes from the Bantu language and means "throwing knife". The Kingdom of Kuba was an association of around 20 Bantu-speaking ethnic groups that ruled autonomously as a political confederation from the 17th to the end of the 19th century, until it lost its autonomy under the pressure of Belgian colonial rule. However, the confederation dominated by the Bushong ruling class still exists today and, in addition to the Bushoong, includes the Ngeende, Ngongo, Kete and Shoowa. The Kuba have a particular fondness for geometric shapes and decorate most utensils and ritual objects with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. This finely designed vessel is probably a so-called "trust or friendship cup" from which initiates drink palm wine together according to prescribed rules. The differently designed cups indicate the degree of initiation of the owners. Further reading: Robbins, Warren M. / Ingram Nooter, Nancy (1989). African Art in American Collections. Washington: Smithsonian Institution Press. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 437 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 300 - 600 CHF

Lot 66 - A Lele Drum, "ngom", with a Turtle and a Portrait in Relief Drum, "ngom", with a Turtle and a Portrait in Relief Lele, DR Congo Mit Sockel / with base Wood, leather. H 97 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The Lele live in southern Congo and are closely related to the Kuba, whose influence is clearly visible in the design of their artworks. For example, they share a particular fondness for geometric shapes with their neighbors and decorate most utilitarian and ritual objects over their entire surface with intricate, mostly geometric patterns. This drum ("ngom" in the Bantu language), which was used for various ceremonial festivities, is also decorated with an all-round carved decoration and an idealized face carved in relief, such as a turtle. Further reading: Meyer, Andres (1997). African drums. Berlin: Museum of Ethnology. -------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 600 / 1 200 Weight in grams: 9200 condition: Some vertical cracks to upper edge, partially restored and filled (see photos). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, cracks, any other impairments and the signs of age, etc. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 600 - 1 200 CHF

Lot 67 - A Songye spatula Spatula with decorated handle Songye, DR Congo Mit Sockel / with base Wood, white metal, iron. H 69.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Cf: Winizki, Ernst / Homberger, Lorenz (1990). African spoons. African Spoons. Zurich: Museum Rietberg. #75. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 580 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 68 - A Rungu Prestige Staff Prestige Staff Rungu, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. H 150.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. High-ranking dignitaries, e.g. regional princes, village chiefs or tribal elders - have a rich repertoire of visible symbols of office. These insignia often included elaborately carved staffs of office, which were often passed on as inheritance. The artistically crafted signs of descent, rank, religious affiliation, power and distinction accompany the owners as personal property and are presented publicly on the occasion of performances. In addition to their primary function, the staffs are used in many different ways and their symbolism is complex. Particularly valuable ones are often carefully decorated and sometimes crowned with figures. As extensions of the hand and arm, they are used, for example, as a support, as a protective instrument, for poking, prodding and pushing, for waving or generally to give signs. Furthermore, in ritual use on various occasions, they are also embodiments of the presence of the ancestors. In some places, a dignitary will also swear an oath on them when taking office. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 988 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 69 - A Luba Prestige Staff with janiform Head, "kibango" Prestige Staff with janiform Head, "kibango" Luba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. H 117 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. High-ranking dignitaries, e.g. regional princes, village chiefs or tribal elders - have a rich repertoire of visible symbols of office. These insignia often included elaborately carved staffs of office, which were often passed on as inheritance. The artistically crafted signs of descent, rank, religious affiliation, power and distinction accompany the owners as personal property and are presented publicly on the occasion of performances. In addition to their primary function, the staffs are used in many different ways and their symbolism is complex. Particularly valuable ones are often carefully decorated and sometimes crowned with figures. As extensions of the hand and arm, they are used, for example, as a support, as a protective instrument, for poking, prodding and pushing, for waving or generally to give signs. Furthermore, in ritual use on various occasions, they are also embodiments of the presence of the ancestors. In some places, a dignitary will also swear an oath on them when taking office. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 688 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 300 - 600 CHF

Lot 70 - A Rungu Spatula Spatula with decorated handle Rungu, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 32,5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 168 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 71 - A Chokwe Mortar Mortar with decorated handle Chokwe, DR Congo Mit Sockel / with base Wood. H 41 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 300 / 600 Weight in grams: 802 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 300 - 600 CHF

Lot 72 - A Kamba Staff with a figurative finial (Figure called "askari") A Kamba Staff with a figurative finial (Figure called "askari") Kamba, Kenya Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, white metal, iron. H 53.5 cm. Provenance: - According to the adhesive label: Edmond (Edi) Remondino, Burundi and Zurich (1996). - Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 378 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 73 - A Mbuti Bark Cloth, "pongo" Bark cloth painting "pongo" Mbuti Pygmies, DR Congo, Ituri Province Ohne Sockel / without base Bark cloth. W 42 cm. L 80 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. "Pongo" consist of ficus bark fibers that were cut and processed by the men. After they were carefully beaten into a thin textile, the women took over the decoration of the hip scarves. The symbolic motifs from the mythical imagination of the Mbuti that are used for the design are the same as those used for body painting. Further reading: Phillips, Tom (ed.) / Appiah, Kwame Anthony / Ekpo Eyo / Mark, Peter / Gates, Henry Louis Jr. / Preston Blier, Suzanne (1996). Africa. The art of a continent. Prestel, Munich. -------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 82 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 74 - 2 Shi Beaded Headbands 2 glass bead headbands Shi, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Glass beads, plant fiber. H 3.5 - 4 cm. Provenance: - Edmond (Edi) Remondino, Burundi and Zurich. - 1995: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 135 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 75 - A Massai Women's Leather Skirt or Cape, "orkila" Leather skirt or cape for women, "orkila" Maasai, Kenya / Tanzania Ohne Sockel / without base Leather, glass beads. W 118 cm. L 126 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 646 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 76 - A Tonga Seat with two Calfs (?) Seat with two calves (?) Tonga, Zambia and Zimbabwe Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 30 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The combination of the useful and the beautiful is particularly evident in the artistically designed seating. The shapes of the African seats are just as varied as their use. Simple seats hewn from a block of wood are juxtaposed with complex composite chairs and royal thrones. Elementary forms of the purest functionality are juxtaposed with richly ornamented works adorned with figurative carvings. From the market woman to the ruler, they are used for comfortable or functional sitting and can also be symbols of wealth, dignity and power, taking a firm place in ceremonies and ritual acts. The seats, which are generally personally owned, may be kept as memorabilia by surviving relatives until no one can remember the former owners. Further reading: Bocola, Sandro (1994). African seats. Munich, Prestel Verlag. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 4387 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 77 - A Zaramo lamellaphone, "mucapata" Lamellophone, "mucapata" Zaramo, Kwere, Tanzania Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. H 30 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs of Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. "Thumb Piano", called "mucapata" by the Zaramo. "Thumb Piano", called "mucapata" by the Zaramo. The African sanza, also known as the "thumb piano", belongs to the group of lamellophones. It consists of a board or resonance box to which metal strips are attached, which the musician sets vibrating to produce sounds. Sanza seem to have appeared twice in Africa, once on the west coast about 3000 years ago (with lamellae made of bamboo or wood), and a second time in the Zambezi Valley about 1300 years ago (with lamellae made of metal). These charming small instruments can still be found today in large parts of Central and East Africa (DR Congo, Angola, Zambia, Tanzania, etc.). Due to their low volume, the mostly lovingly designed instruments are played at intimate events rather than on large occasions. Further reading: Borel, François (1986). Collections d'instruments de musique. Les Sanza. Neuchâtel: Musée d'ethnographie. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 550 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 78 - 3 Tanzanian Containers with figurative Stoppers 3 Containers with figurative stoppers Tanzania Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, terracotta, glass beads, shells, cord. H 14 - 18.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1386 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 79 - 2 Sihanaka ceremonial paddles 2 ceremonial paddles Sihanaka, Madagascar Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 107.5 - 111.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Bertrand Goy describes such paddles in 2015 in the book "Arts anciens de Madagascar" as follows: "Pagaies d'Ambatondrazaka Sur la poignée des pagaies, des figurines d'hommes et d'animaux, d'un art primitif sans doute, mais plein d'observation; signalons en passant que ces ouvrages en bois sculptés viennent d'Ambatondrazaka. (...) Ambatondrazaka is a localité située au nord-est de Madagascar, actuellesment chef-lieu de district dans la région Alaotra-Mangoro. A short distance away, on these high plateaus, lies Lake Alaotra, the largest lake in the island, part of which was reclaimed in the 1950s to create an important fishing region. Fishing has developed considerably there, especially since the Sikanaka rivers have always exploited the resources of the lake, particularly the anguilles. (...) Basse-cour et faune sauvage constituententent les thèmes favoris des sculpteurs de pagaies pour qui le zébu tient la tête devant les caméléons, les poules, les cochons, les chevaux et les oiseaux divers. In smaller proportions, humans are also found at the foot of the poignées, both on foot and on horseback. The size and fragility of these objects, as well as the quality of the wood used, rosewood, palissandre... exclude their use as an accessory for navigation. (...) D'autres pagaies, fonctionnelles celles-ci, sont visibles au musée des Confluences, à Lyon, sous l'appellation fivohy (rame). Their shape is identical to that of the pagaies sihanaka, with the difference that their point is not decorated with a sculpted motif. Elles sont encore utilisées sur le canal des Pangalanes." See: Goy, Bertrand (2015). Arts anciens de Madagascar. Milan: 5 Continents Editions. Page 41-45. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1520 Condition: Various visible damages and knocks (see photos). -------------------------------- The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 80 - A Tsonga or Zulu Prestige Staff Dignity Staff Tsonga / Zulu, South Africa Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 134 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. High-ranking dignitaries, e.g. regional princes, village chiefs or tribal elders - have a rich repertoire of visible symbols of office. These insignia often included elaborately carved staffs of office, which were often passed on as inheritance. The artistically crafted signs of descent, rank, religious affiliation, power and distinction accompany the owners as personal property and are presented publicly on the occasion of performances. In addition to their primary function, the staffs are used in many different ways and their symbolism is complex. Particularly valuable ones are often carefully decorated and sometimes crowned with figures. As extensions of the hand and arm, they are used, for example, as a support, as a protective instrument, for poking, prodding and pushing, for waving or generally to give signs. Furthermore, in ritual use on various occasions, they are also embodiments of the presence of the ancestors. In some places, a dignitary will also swear an oath on them when taking office. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 466 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 81 - A Ntwane Doll, "gimwane" Doll, "gimwane Ntwane, South Africa Ohne Sockel / without base Glass beads, plant fiber, textile, cord. H 30 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 1067 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 82 - A Ndebele Apron, "ijogolo" Apron, "ijogolo" Ndebele, South Africa Ohne Sockel / without base Leather, glass beads. H 64 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Published: Gérald Minkoff (1997). Au quotidien sublime. Lausanne: Musée des arts décoratifs. #45. Exhibited: Lausanne: Musée des arts décoratifs. Au quotidien sublime. Gérald Minkoff et Muriel Olesen: un choix d'objets, de parures et de tissus traditionnels en Afrique. 27.09 - 09.11.1997. On special occasions and celebrations, mothers wear aprons embroidered with glass beads ("jocolo" or "ijogolo") made of goatskin or canvas. The rags attached to the lower edge of the apron symbolize the wish for a child-rich marriage. According to F. Mottas (2018), she was given two different aprons. A simpler one for everyday use and a finer and more elaborately decorated one for special occasions and ceremonial celebrations. Further reading: Mottas, François / Müller, Daniela / Guyer, Nanina / Oberholzer, Michaela (editor) (2018). Bead art from Africa. The Mottas Collection. Zurich: Scheidegger & Spiess in collaboration with the Museum Rietberg. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 1079 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 83 - A Fang ceremonial dagger Ceremonial Dagger Fang, Gabon Mit Sockel / with base Iron, wood, copper alloy. H 34,5 cm. Provenance: - Galerie Ratton-Hourdé, Daniel Hourdé, Paris. - 2005: Private collection in French-speaking Switzerland. A certificate (Attestation d'authenticité) from the Galerie Ratton-Hourdé (2005) will be given to the buyer. Unsold at Sotheby's Paris (09.04.2022, "Living Contemporary", lot 214) with an estimate of € 3'000-5'000 (for two knives). ----------------------------------------------------- In a certificate, Daniel Hourdé and Philippe Ratton write about this object: "Les premiers voyageurs parcourant les forêts équatoriales situées entre le fleuve Ogoue au Gabon et la Sanaga au Cameroun, furent surpris de découvrir le raffinement de la culture des farouches guerriers Pahouins si redoutables qu'on leurs prêta des rites cannibales. Le manche de ce couteau cérémoniel recouvert de fil de métal de laiton torsadé se termine par une boucle. The patina of the lame attests to its antiquity." ----------------------------------------------------- Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. The original function is therefore limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Fischer, Werner / Zirngibl, Manfred A. (1978). African weapons. Knives, daggers, swords, axes, throwing weapons. Prinz Verlag. CHF 1 000 / 2 000 Weight in grams: 447 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 1 000 - 2 000 CHF

Lot 84 - A Kota Throwing Knife, "musele / onzil" Throwing knife, "musele / onzil" Kota, Gabon Ohne Sockel / without base Iron, wood, copper alloy, upholstery nails. H 25 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Schmidt, A. M / Westerdjik, P. (2006). The Cutting Edge. West Central African 19th century throwing knives in the National Museum of Ethnology Leiden. Leiden: National Museum of Ethnology. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 207 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 85 - A Gbaya Throwing Knife Throwing Knife Gbaya / Yangere / Makaa, Central African Republic Ohne Sockel / without base Iron. H 41 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Schmidt, A. M / Westerdjik, P. (2006). The Cutting Edge. West Central African 19th century throwing knives in the National Museum of Ethnology Leiden. Leiden: National Museum of Ethnology. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 550 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 86 - A Toma ceremonial axe Ceremonial axe (scepter) Toma / Loma, Guinea / Liberia Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. W 37 cm. L 55 cm. Provenance: - Jean-Louis Rinsoz (1932-1971), Vevey. - Heirs Jean-Louis Rinsoz, French-speaking Switzerland. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is therefore limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Fischer, Werner / Zirngibl, Manfred A. (1978). African weapons. Knives, daggers, swords, axes, throwing weapons. Prinz Verlag. ----------------------------------------------------- Jean-Louis Rinsoz Jean-Louis Rinsoz was born in Vevey in 1932. After completing his schooling, he studied economics at the University of Lausanne (Faculty of Business Administration, HEC) before joining the family business "Rinsoz et Ormond SA" in Vevey, which manufactured tobacco, cigars and cigarettes. Deeply attached to his home region, he was always closely involved in Vevey's social, cultural and industrial activities. In order to diversify the sources of tobacco supply and meet the growing demands of an expanding market, Jean-Louis Rinsoz looked for new production areas. His travels took him first to Maryland (USA) and then, in the mid-1960s, to Côte d'Ivoire. This country was a revelation for him. Everything he was passionate about was there: the nature, the people and their culture! In addition to developing a significant economic partnership with the Ivorian state by setting up several tobacco production centers there, Jean-Louis Rinsoz financed the opening of a number of small schools to provide access to education for the children of this country. He was officially appointed by the Ivorian state as "Honorary Consul of Côte d'Ivoire in Switzerland, based in Vevey" and was even inaugurated as village chief in the Baoulé region. He was equally fascinated by the traditional art of these regions, in its social, aesthetic and religious dimensions. It was in this context that he met the ethnologist and art historian Bohumil Holas, who was then director of the Museum of Civilizations of Côte d'Ivoire in Abidjan. The two men became friends. The confluence of all these factors resulted in the exhibition "Arts de la Côte d'Ivoire. The Treasures of the Abidjan Museum", which was held at the Museum of Fine Arts in Vevey in 1969. Jean-Louis Rinsoz was the chairman of the committee. The moving foreword he wrote for the catalog of this event testifies to his deep attachment to this country. Jean-Louis Rinsoz had applied for Ivorian citizenship. He was never to live to see that day, as he died in a tragic accident in 1971. The African objects from Jean-Louis Rinsoz's personal collection have been in the family ever since and this "treasure from Vevey" is being offered to international collectors of traditional African art for the first time at our auction. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 400 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 87 - A Banda Throwing Knife, "ondo" Throwing knife, "ondo Banda, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Iron, plant fiber. H 41 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Schmidt, A. M / Westerdjik, P. (2006). The Cutting Edge. West Central African 19th century throwing knives in the National Museum of Ethnology Leiden. Leiden: National Museum of Ethnology. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 279 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 88 - A Kongo ceremonial short sword Ceremonial short sword Congo / Ngbaka / Mbuja, DR Congo Mit Sockel / with base Iron, wood, copper . H 46 cm. Provenance: - Galerie Entwistle, Lance Entwistle, Paris. - 2006: Private collection in French-speaking Switzerland. Unsold at Sotheby's Paris (09.04.2022, "Living Contemporary", lot 214) with an estimate of € 3'000-5'000 (for two knives). ----------------------------------------------------- On Lance Entwistle's invoice, this object is described as follows: "Couteau cérémonial. République Démocratique du Congo, 19ième ou début du 20ième. Fer, cuivre, laiton, bois. Longueur: 46.5 cm. € 2'500". ----------------------------------------------------- Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is therefore limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Fischer, Werner / Zirngibl, Manfred A. (1978). African weapons. Knives, daggers, swords, axes, throwing weapons. Prinz Verlag. CHF 1 000 / 2 000 Weight in grams: 769 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 1 000 - 2 000 CHF

Lot 89 - A ceremonial short sword, "ikul" Ceremonial sword, "ikul" Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Copper, wood, white metal. H 40 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Published: Minkoff, Gérald (1997). L'art fait signe aux royaumes des Kuba. Edition Miss Understanding For All. Page 26. Exhibited: Forum de Meyrin, Ville de Meyrin, 11.04.-10.05.1997. Described by Gérald Minkoff 1997 in the exhibition catalog "L'art fait signe aux royaumes des Kuba" as follows: "Un vrai mukuba ne saurait sortir sans son poignard ikul qu'il porte sur la hanche droite, enfilé dans un pli de son vêtement. Le plus court des deux possède une lame en cuivre d'une forme peu fréquente. The other one, an iculintey, is made of wood and its port is reserved for this period of three hours of the new moon, when it does not appear in the sky. During this time, it is accepted that the men do not murder and that the women would not conceive a child, their condition increasing with the reappearance of the moon." ----------------------------------------------------- Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is therefore limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Ethan Rider (2021). 100 African Blades from 55 Collections. San Francisco: J. M. Fogel Media. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 283 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 90 - A ceremonial short sword, "ikulintey" Ceremonial sword, "ikulintey" Cuba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 55.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Published: Minkoff, Gérald (1997). L'art fait signe aux royaumes des Kuba. Edition Miss Understanding For All. Page 26. Exhibited: Forum de Meyrin, Ville de Meyrin, 11.04.-10.05.1997. Described by Gérald Minkoff 1997 in the exhibition catalog "L'art fait signe aux royaumes des Kuba" as follows: "Un vrai mukuba ne saurait sortir sans son poignard ikul qu'il porte sur la hanche droite, enfilé dans un pli de son vêtement. Le plus court des deux possède une lame en cuivre d'une forme peu fréquente. The other one, an iculintey, is made of wood and its port is reserved for this period of three hours of the new moon, when it does not appear in the sky. During this time, it is accepted that the men do not murder and that the women would not conceive a child, their condition increasing with the reappearance of the moon." ----------------------------------------------------- Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is therefore limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Ethan Rider (2023). 100 African Blades, Vol. 2, San Francisco: J. M. Fogel Media. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 213 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 91 - 2 Hemba Miniature Knives with Sheaths 2 miniature knives with sheaths Hemba, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Iron, wood, brass, white metal. H 22 - 27 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Cornet, Joseph-Aurelien / Dewey, William Dr. / Dubrunfaut, P. / Elsen, Jan / Felix, Marc L. / Gosseau, Christian / Schoonheyt, Jacques / van Noten, Francis (1992). Beauté fatale. Armes d'Afrique centrale. Galerie du Crédit Communal. Crédit Communal, Bruxelles. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 200 / 400 Weight in grams: 220 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 200 - 400 CHF

Lot 92 - A Pende Axe (Adze / Sceptre) Ceremonial axe (sceptre) Pende / Mbuun / Mbala, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron. H 38,5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Ethan Rider (2021). 100 African Blades from 55 Collections. San Francisco: J. M. Fogel Media. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 275 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 93 - A Songye ceremonial axe, "kilonda" Ceremonial axe, "kilonda" Songye / Nsapo, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron, copper. H 39 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Cornet, Joseph-Aurelien / Dewey, William Dr. / Dubrunfaut, P. / Elsen, Jan / Felix, Marc L. / Gosseau, Christian / Schoonheyt, Jacques / van Noten, Francis (1992). Beauté fatale. Armes d'Afrique centrale. Galerie du Crédit Communal. Crédit Communal, Bruxelles. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 546 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 94 - A Yakoma Short Sword with Sheath, "basakpwa" Short sword with sheath, "basakpwa" Yakoma / Ngbandi, DR Congo Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron, copper, leather. H 36 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Fischer, Werner / Zirngibl, Manfred A. (1978). African weapons. Knives, daggers, swords, axes, throwing weapons. Prinz Verlag. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 398 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, any other damage and signs of age, etc.) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

Lot 95 - An Ovambo Dagger with Sheath, "omukondo" Dagger with sheath, "omukondo" Ovambo, Angola / Namibia Ohne Sockel / without base Wood, iron, copper alloy. H 42 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. Ceremonial weapons are characterized by careful manufacture and decorative design, e.g. the ornamentation with valuable materials such as copper, bronze, ivory or fur. Their original function is thus limited, so that their use as a weapon of war is no longer the main focus. Instead, they signaled the wearer's social status and power, making them more like cult, ceremonial, dignity and status weapons that were also used in barter. Further reading: Cornet, Joseph-Aurelien / Dewey, William Dr. / Dubrunfaut, P. / Elsen, Jan / Felix, Marc L. / Gosseau, Christian / Schoonheyt, Jacques / van Noten, Francis (1992). Beauté fatale. Armes d'Afrique centrale. Galerie du Crédit Communal. Crédit Communal, Bruxelles. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 376 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). The statements regarding the condition of the items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 400 - 800 CHF

Lot 96 - A Gogo Club, "rungu" club, "rungu Gogo, Tanzania Ohne Sockel / without base Wood. H 61.5 cm. Provenance: Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) and Muriel Olesen (1948-2020), Geneva. The insignia of power that illustrate the social status of their owners also include elaborately carved clubs in some places. In addition to physical objects of utility (e.g. as weapons or tools), they are also metaphorical extensions of the hand and emphasize the presence of ancestors during conversations. They illustrate the owner's ancestry and are presented during public processions. ----------------------------------------------------- Gérald Minkoff and Muriel Olesen Muriel Minkoff-Olesen (1948- 2020) completed her training at the School of Design in Geneva. Gérald Minkoff (1937-2009) was a trained anthropologist and biologist. Both achieved fame as artists and from their meeting in 1967, the emblematic couple of contemporary art were inseparable. The travel-loving Olesen-Minkoff duo explored life like curious nomads, roaming the globe from Africa to Asia, Oceania, America and Patagonia. As artists and experienced collectors of contemporary art, they understandably had a keen sensitivity to the aesthetics and concepts of non-European art. The couple's Geneva apartment, perhaps their most beautiful joint work, thus became a place where the works of close friends such as Daniel Spoerri, Arman and Man Ray, as well as their own photographs, lived together with almost a thousand objects from Africa, Oceania, Asia and South America. CHF 100 / 200 Weight in grams: 563 Condition: The condition of this lot (wear, signs of use, tears, any other detractions and the signs of age, etc. The condition of this lot (wear, tears, possible other impairments and signs of age, if applicable) can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions with any questions regarding this lot ([email protected]). Any statements regarding the condition of items made for the convenience of interested parties are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided Hammer Auctions has been notified within 5 days of receipt of the lot.

Estim. 100 - 200 CHF

HAMMER 134 / African Ethnography

Hammer Auktionen AG - +41444000220 - Email