Introduction

We have chosen from the numerous objects brought to us during the year those that we hope will be of interest to you. We take special pleasure in presenting many objects from the Dalu Collection, a holding assembled over half a century that could not be duplicated today. In fact, we will be offering at this time numerous items that either have not been on the market in decades, or have never been offered in the U.S. before!!

We have elected to make some alterations with regard to the pre-sale estimates. You will note their absence in this catalogue. We have found that they can be confusing, and may be either too high or too low. Subject as we are to the vagaries of the current market, it simply won't do! So, we have chosen to level the field and allow these objects to seek their own prices. The Pre-Columbian section at the conclusion of the auction will include estimates.

We have also organized the objects in a more logical fashion, and have done our best to describe them more fully; references cited when space permits. We ask that you carefully study this catalogue, as we are confident you will find the object of your desires. Unless otherwise specified in the Tribal section, wood is the medium, and in the Pre-Colombian, Terracotta.

Good luck!

AFRICA

HEDDLE PULLEYS

**Male weavers in West Africa use these to hold the various colors of thread and are suspended above the loom. Though utilitarian, these are charming miniature works of art. The motifs may represent ceremonial objects that are property of the family of the weaver, or are symbols known only to the weaver himself. Some represent basic elements of sculptural styles, masks, statues, etc. We are pleased to offer a number of them. The Guro and Baule are most often encountered, the Ivory Coast area being quite prolific.

1. -----a large piece with janiform elephant heads, large suspension loop on top, the fork having rows of small incised chevrons. A lovely carving, brown, with the tusks plain. Some pigment in ears. L.12.75 in.

2. -----a pair, with mask faces, but male and female (the latter with hair knot on back of head). Forks with incised lines of chevrons, black/brown glossy patina. 9.5, 10,75 in.

3. -----a pair, heads on both pieces, smooth coiffures. One piece has finer facial features than the other, scarification on neck. Black, crusty patinas. 7,3, 7,6 in.

4. -----a Janiform piece, deep, with projecting faces. On the sides, featureless "faces". Black, crusty patina, with suspension cord. odd. 7.5 in.

5. -----a beautifully rendered female bust, with ornate, tall coiffure coming to a point, braid behind head. Breasts on front of fork, with scarification. Profuse incised lines of chevrons. "Fat rings" on neck. Warm brown color. H.13 in.

6. -----a male bust, well-carved facial features, high, crested coiffure, prominent ears. Fork has three incised horizontal lines, crusty black surface. attractive. 11.5 in.

7. -----a lot of four small pieces. a) a "sling-shot"-shaped piece, with long neck, on top of which is a flattened animal head(Senufo?). b) crude janiform faces with cross-hatched lines on the sides of the forks. c) janiform faces, mask-like, with high coiffures (male & female?). Nice style. d)deep forks surmounted with what appears to be two vessels, one atop the other, forks have profuse incised zig-zags, etc. First three with black, crusty patinas. sizes 6.25 to 7,5 in. Wonderful starter lot!

 

AFRICAN ART OBJECTS BY REGION/TRIBAL GROUPING:

CAMEROON

8. Bamun, a large and very ornate ceremonial knife with carved standing wooden figure at top. Man stands holding ax in right hand, staff in left. Blade is iron , flat and broad near forte, tapering to a point. Decorated with mud packed cowry shells immediately below standing figure; also with star shaped pattern in center of one side of blade. On metal stand. Very well rendered!. Ht: 23".

9. -----very similar to above except on this piece man tilts his head to side and carries different implements in his hands.

10. -----stool, openwork circular seat supported by four male figures, carved in-the-round, open base. Old repair to the seat. Crusty patina. H.14 in., diam. 12.75 in

11. -----helmet mask. Head with broad grin, prominent ears, openwork coiffure resembles two humps, on the front of which are two spiders side-by-side surrounded by oval pellets. Back of coiffure shows two crosses, also surrounded by oval pellets. White pigment accents, black crusty patina. H. ca. 17 in. Spiders are used in divination.

12. -----Bush cow head-dress. Nicely modeled face with almond eyes, long snout , flaring nostrils, mouth open with tongue protruding, horns comma-shaped against head. Red accents to the bare grain of the wood. Dark patina over all, old repairs to the jaw. Nice piece, worthy of attention! L. 15,75 in.

13. -----Janiform head-dress. Domed bowl with janiform faces, deeply incised hairlines, protruding ears, deep set eyes, broad, flat nose. Two old repairs, one recent crack to side. Still a good item with a nice brown, patina. L. ca. 10,75 in., H. 8 in.

A RARE AND SPECTACULAR

SHAMAN FIGURE!!

14. A male figure, his entire body covered in knotted hemp, save for his face, which has a conical "cap" of the same material, stands upon an open circular base covered with cowry-inset dark clay. A circular "dish", its rim decorated in similar fashion, is attached to the knees of the figure, a cowry-decorated animal skull in front joining the base with the dish. The figure has a necklace and belt composed of wooden beads, the former with an animal-horn pendant, and holds what appears to be a cylindrical object, perhaps a pounder. A pair of animal horns hang from it, which, like the pendant is covered in cowry-inlaid dark clay. A small, round gourd and a pair of large snail shells accent the "hat", completing the piece. Ht. 53,75 in.; very impressive item, rarely seen!

 

CHAD, Sao-a nice group of terra-cotta plaques, not often encountered and quite charming for their naive renderings of human figures, mostly males, it would seem....

15. -----four male figures surround a chief, a large food bowl placed in center between them. H. 6 in., L.11 in.

16. -----a Chief, seated, has two females (wives?) either side of him. H. 6,25 in., L. 11,25 in.

17. -----five male figures, nude, sit side-by-side with hands clasped behind their heads. H.6 in., L.13 in.

18. -----a supine female, attended by two others (midwives), gives birth. The baby's head is shown emerging. H. 5 in., L. 10,5 in. Interesting treatment of a very common but very wonderful event--ideal gift for an OB/GYN...

19. -----four men sit around a chief, a bowl with food sits between them. H. 6 in., L. 11 in.

20. -----four men, seated side-by-side, have before them a canoe-shaped bowl. H. 6 in., L.11,5 in.

21. -----four males, seated, with food bowls in the laps of each. A small animal (dog?) sits in front. Cute. H.5,75 in., L.11 in.

DAHOMEY

A FINE AND RARE ROYAL SCEPTER

22. Fon, Makpo or "recado"(Port.), Ceremonial Scepter representing the authority of the King, this item, when in the hands of the Royal messenger, conveys the absolute power of its owner. "J"-shaped staff covered completely with foil that has "pimples" hammered o/a. On the outside of the short section is a basket-ball hoop-shaped object, and attached to the end is a sphere. The meanings of these attachments not known, as usual. brass, patinated, and surprisingly intact o/a. o/a. L. ca.21 in.

23. -----attributed to, staff. Pale colored wood, cylindrical cross-section with lion crouching upon a platform, tail arched over back, tip touching. Beneath the plain "handle" section is a female kneeling upon a platform, both hands holding breasts. beneath her are two snakes, either aido-hwedo or Da, carved vertically. Bottom figure a female, standing and wearing skirt, l. hand on side, r. hand holding an object(pounder?)in front. Shaft then continues to a point, itself covered in iron sheeting!!! L.46 in. A very scarce and interesting item, worthy of study!! Some cracks on side not detracting.

**The snakes are said to have been placed in the earth and the sea by the Creator. Each one has a different name.

 

GABON

A VERY IMPRESSIVE RELIQUARY

24. Fang-Nsekh Bieri, or container. Bark & wood stitched cylindrical box, ca. 15,75 in. high, used to contain long bones, skulls(and/or fragments), and vertebrae of ancestors of the lineage. Upon the lid, center is a seated female Bieri figure, ca. 19,25 in. high with long "hair", sections of metal sheeting on face in the Okak, or Southern style. A skull of a ruminant is on the lid in front of the figure. Attached to the sides of the box are skin-covered pouches with magic substances, animal horns/skulls, miniature figures with crusty/glossy patinas. The two small figures attached to the box appear Ntumu, or Northern style. An interesting, scarce and unusual item from an old collection. Ex Chosak H. o/a 35,5 in.

**Included with this item is a hardbound, illustrated & quite out-of-print book on the Fang Tribes by Perrois & Delage !!!!

25. -----(attributed to), Hair comb. Light-colored wood with miniature "Ngil" mask carved at end of long, square cross-section neck. Body of comb: front has incised patterns above, below and between a pair of rounded breasts, the back having a four-petaled floral motif. The six teeth are smooth ivory with a lovely honey color. Beautifully carved, and quite scarce as is all Fang utilitarian art.

GHANA

ASANTE (ASHANTE)

26. -----Forowa, or container to hold shea butter. Brass sheet construction. hemispherical lid , two-tiered cylindrical body with copper rivets, all with repousse designs. Base is iron sheet, with several small perforations clustered in center. A nice, old example. H.5,5 in., Diam. 4 in. Also used to contain funerary offerings!

27. -----Poma akyi, or Linguists staff, used by attendant to Oba(King). Wood with traces of gold leaf, made in two parts. The staff itself is a diamond pattern overall, with disc-like, hollow butt. The finial is of a seated female seated upon a stool, a drum-shaped object at her feet, all on a circular platform. l. arm lacking. Dark patina to the handle. An impressive and scarce item. L./a 26 in. There may have been another handle section...

28. -----Hair comb. Arch-shaped body with three half-moon piercings, large half-moon area of openwork with a stool carved in-the-round. One side lightly incised with bands of diagonal lines, four-leaf clover in center flanked by two hearts(playing card symbols?), the other side having bands of diagonal lines, squares & cross-hatching. Most important is inscription in flowing script: KRISTINA MAMAVI S A. One tooth lacking, two chipped at ends. Smooth old honey patina. ex Kaysar, ex Chosak. A super piece! L. 9.75 in.

**This may have belonged to a Christian convert of high status.

The Asanti and their neighbors, such as the Fante produce Fertility and Maternity figures. They are quite stylized, abstract, really, and are well-known in the rest of the world. We are proud to offer a number of nice examples. No African collection should be without one!

**Akua'ba, or "Fertility" doll. If carried by a pregnant female or young woman hoping for a child, the baby will be born "beautiful". One will notice "Fat rings" on the necks of figures. This is because obesity is considered attractive, and the mother will bear a healthy child.

29. -----our first example has the typical disc-shaped "face", with simply-rendered features (eyebrows, eyes, nose, sometimes mouth). "Fat rings" are carved on the "neck". There are scarification marks on the body, in this case carved in-the-round as a standing figure. Red-brown color o/all. H 14.75 in.

30. -----another, quite similar, the body carved in a more rounded, stocky form, but tall and impressive. H.24.25 in.

31. -----another, but this time the body is cylindrical, as is usual. Small breasts, stumps for "arms", prominent navel, fat rings on neck. Stepped base, old repairs to l. arm. Glossy brown patina. As decent as these come! H.12.75 in.

32. -----another, identical in style, but this example is well-adorned! Small multi-colored seed beads are strung into loops, and are interspersed around the "face", around the neck, and twice around the body. R. arm lacking. There is erosion to the back of the "face" and oval-cross-section "body". A piece with apparent age, and scarce thus. H.13 in.

Esi Mansa, or Maternity figure, also thought of as "Queen Mother" figure. These are much sought after, and analogous, some feel, to the Virgin Mother & Child ! We offer two nice examples:

34. -----female with ornate, four-lobed coiffure, fat rings on neck, scarified body with hands holding breasts, knees slightly bent, standing on an ornate stool. Face is flattened like on the akua'ba, but more detailed. Black crusty/glossy patina. beautiful piece! H.18.75 in.

35. -----another. Figure with ornate coiffure is seated upon a stool holding children in her lap, l. & r., while another, third child clings to her back, all well-carved in-the-round. A few losses, upper body of child on r. side lacking but o/wise attractive. H.26.6 in.

GUINEA

36. Baga, a-Tshol, or "Medicine head". Long, tapered bird-beak-like chin, coiffure as rows of diagonal lines, small eyes and long, narrow "nose", all on a circular, stepped base. Said to have been placed in young males' sacred grove to serve as a guardian during initiation. Instrumental in rituals involving healing, divination and pursuit of justice. Also worn as a head-dress in dances. Some cracks, dark, crusty old patina. L. 21,5 in, H.18 in. a scarce item.

** Nimba head-dresses are far more common relative to this type, so this example is worthy of attention. A wonderful piece for someone involved in the Medical field!!

IVORY COAST

37. Baule-Waka snan (people of wood)-Female figure, standing on a base, with hands on her lower abdomen. Usual scarification patterns. Bold, somewhat crude style, but a very slender figure. H.19,75 in.

38. -----another, but this figure more robust in style. Three-part crested coiffure, scarification marks as usual, but holding a pear-shaped vessel in both hands in front of stomach. Glossy brown/black patina, on circular base, well-carved! H.34 in.

39. -----a male & female pair, both in kneeling position. The male has a swept-back coiffure, beard, and holds a staff in r. hand, the female with a three-lobed crested coiffure, hands on knees. Glossy brown patina, crusty in deeply-carved areas. Male H.13,25 in, female H.13.5 in.

AN EXCEPTIONAL MATERNITY FIGURE

40. -----female, body fully scarified, sits upon a stool holding a child in her lap with both hands. Her coiffure is crested, with side lobes ending in tapering braids. A bangle is carved on her left wrist, and she has an iron anklet on her right leg! Mottled glossy brown patina overall. A beautiful old piece showing wonderful grain--one to appeal to the sophisticated collector! H.25 in.

41. -----Mask-bearded face, flat oval coiffure with geometric patternings, toothed border to face, red, white accents applied sparingly. Crusty black patina. L.17 in.

42. -----another, similar but with three-part high-crested coiffure, band of scarification on forehead, white pigment accents in incised areas. Attractive. L.15,25 in.

43. -----another, but broad, fairly flat in shape, with elaborate, high coiffure, scarification on forehead and cheeks in particular, "figure-eight"-shaped mouth. Mottled brown, crusty patina. Item has charm of its own. L.14 in.

44. -----another, but top of coiffure flat across, upon which sit two birds (hornbills?)facing each other, beak-to-beak. L. 15,25 in.

**Dan masks are said to represent "idealized" beauty. Classic, simple and must-have in every African collection, we offer a few types here:

45. -----a dean gle mask of typical form. Protruding forehead, narrow slit eyes, broad nose, lips parted, small pierced ears. Mottled patina, old losses/damages. L.10 in.

46. -----another, larger & broad. Prominent lips, cloth-rolled, cowry-accented "coiffure". Cute. L.13,5 in.

47. -----another, similar to preceding, but cloth roll has red stripes. Dark, glossy patina like preceding. L. 10,75 in.

48. -----a ge gon, or bird-faced mask (probably represents a hornbill). Oval face with elongated "beak", around which is applied with pitch(?) long, dark animal hair or fur. Oval metal sheeting cut into oval with narrow slit affixed over eyes. Dark glossy/crusty patina. L. ca. 12,5 in (w/o "hair).

49. -----another, likely the same carver, L. ca. 12 in. Old repairs.

50. -----attributed to. Another, but this example has a long curved beak ending in a point, the face of the mask covered in metal sheeting, narrow slits for eyes. Interesting example in any case! L. 15,5 in. Perhaps some sort of "fetish" piece?..

51. -----or Diomande. A large example with simple features: eyebrows high on forehead, slits for eyes, long beak, three deeply incised lines around face (one inside the other). Crusty/glossy patina, somewhat mottled. Ancient-looking piece. L.23,5 in.

SENUFO

52. "Kpelie" mask of the Lo society. typical form, face with angular features, various projections, "feet" representing the Gahariga(hornbill). A very attractive example. L.15 in.

**This type is considered classic among West African masks. An example similar to this item is on pg. 23, Collectors guide to Masks by T. Teuten.

53. -----another example but mouth protrudes markedly, and a hornbill is standing atop head! L.16,75 in.

54. -----another, smaller example, with the Gahariga (hornbill) standing atop head, but in a rotund, long-beaked style. L 15 in.

55. -----Kaa Tyeleo, or Old mother of the village. Central divinity in the Poro society and placed in the sacred grove (sinzanga). An important Maternity figure: seated upon a stool, she holds a child at her l. breast, her lower legs being the two front legs of the stool. She has bodily scarifications, typical high crested coiffure with the "bird beak" over the forehead. Old repairs. lovely. 40,25 in.

56. -----another, seated upon a four-legged circular stool, with a child in her lap, its head in her left hand. Usual scarification and coiffure style. Glossy patina and very fine carving style. H.31 in.

57. -----Deble, or rhythm-pounders. A pair, male and female. Tall, slender figures, bald-headed but for short handles projecting from the tops of their heads. Hands are on both sides of their abdomens, palms facing. Usual scarifications at navel, etc., their "feet" set in short drum-like bases. Well-carved examples of an important ritual implement! 2 items. 39,75 in.

58. -----another, single piece. A female, standing upon a circular base, hands on lower abdomen, palms facing, with "bird beak" projection out of forehead. Black glossy/crusty patina. A nice carving. H.37,75 in.

59. Liberia(attributed to), face mask. Slightly prominent forehead, deep-set almond eyes with narrow slits, broad nostrils, oval mouth with lips parted showing teeth. Left & r. cheeks have small, circular projections (scarification?). Old repairs, red-brown, glossy patina. An old piece for sure. L. 9,75 in.

KENYA

60. Turkana-a staff. Light colored wood inset with bands of aluminum "tacks" around the flat, flaring handle, at mid-length, and around the bottom and foot. Attractive and scarce item. It is said that the men sometimes "aim" these at each other like a rifle. L. 36,9 in.

61. -----wrist knife. "C"-shaped thin iron disc with very sharp outer edge.A narrow leather guard covers the perimeter and interior of the "C". The interior guard is rotated so that the center of the "C" is slipped over the wrist. The guard is then moved back around to protect it. A very nasty weapon used in close-quarters fighting, and the Turkana are known for being fierce! Rather scarce . Greatest diameter o/a 4.75 in., ex Chosak, collected decades ago. See Stone, p.18fol., fig #28,#1 for related examples.

62. -----another, identical, but diameter is 4,5 in. Same source.

63. -----a "power figure". Standing male, rough features to face, arms at sides, metal ear-rings(one beaded), feathers top of head, large "bun" on its back, metal & bead chin ornament. Reddish pigment to body. A yellow-spotted black cape, black & white loincloth, and celluloid bands around the ankles add to the figures' charm. On the side hangs a hide-sealed animal horn with hoof "rattles". A very interesting piece of sculpture from an area not really known for it. Collected in the 1960's. H. 14 in.

64. Elephant Madness!!!! A charming lot of three items: one is a pale wood, squared base, openwork carving of 6 beasts upon each-others back. AND a spoon & fork with elephants on the handles. H. of the first, 16,5 in.,of the last (a pair) ca.11 in.

65. Musical Madness!!!! A set of three double-sided hand-drums. Sinew-bound hide skins on wooden barrel-shaped frames with interior "rattles". Nice shape. Also a "Makonde-style" ebony totemic carving of two "bush-spirits"(research confirms this!). Old repairs. Also called "airport art" for reasons as yet unclear... Collected in the 1960's!

 

MALI

Bamana(Bambara)

66. N'tomo Society mask. Face with overall incised geometric patterns, five vertical projections at back, long-necked antelope head projecting from forehead. Quite impressive for type. black color. H. 28 in.

**A famous type, these are sometimes encountered virtually smothered in cowries! Masks can be male or female, depending upon the number of vertical projections. The faces can be smooth or decorated, depending upon region of origin. These lots reflect this.

67. -----another, but face plain. Hair has geometric patterns. Six vertical projections of which five remain(one lost to insect damage). Standing female figure on forehead, red cord & cowry accents. Brown/black medium patina. Still attractive for type. H.22.5 in.

68. -----another? Resembles the type, but NO vertical projections in back! Usual oval face, oval eyes with slits, long nose & small, protruding parted lips. Incised lines on forehead and cheeks. Standing figure on forehead(female?). Brown glossy/crusty patina, old repairs. Interesting piece, worthy of further study. L. 27 in.

**The Kore Society has many "grades" of initiation and a very broad palette of mask types. The Hyena is often represented, but then so are other "animals", often in the abstract, such as the following:

69.-----a mask with a long "snout", flat nose, open mouth with closely-set wooden peg "teeth", upper & lower. Small ears at side of head. A Crocodile, or Hippo?? Smooth patina, some old losses. L.17,75 in.

70. -----another, similar. On the prominent forehead are almond-shaped "eyes"(or ears?), square openings below, broad nose, gaping mouth also filled with wood-peg teeth. Crusty, muddy patina. Perhaps the same creature as preceeding? Super looks! L. 14,75 in.

71. -----another animal. Very abstract features, small square eyes, broad prominent nose & forehead. Broad, toothless mouth with conical ears and a conical "horn" in between. Dark glossy/crusty patina. Neat mask. L. 12,75 in.

72. -----another, but small ears, very broad nose, mouth as a large, square opening. Red cord tufts, geometric & cross-hatched incised designs on face. Glossy brown patina. L 15,25 in.

OTHER BAMANA OBJECTS

73. -----Granary Door lock. Typical form with geometric, cross-hatched, horizontal and vertical incised designs over-all. Vertical lock has two standing figures, male & female, as finials. Really nice patina. Attractive and well--worked. H. 16,25 in., W. 13 in.

74. -----figure. Female, standing, with bifurcated pointed coiffure, conical breasts, hands at sides, palms in. Usual scarification patterns on body, but with a brown/black patina, glossy in areas. An attractive piece in regional style. H.30 in.

75. -----another, possibly a house-post? Long, almost cylindrical body. Face has usual bold features, long "braids" either side of head coming to a point, hands straight up above head, each terminating in a "face", a small horizontal plank above both. Figure is seated upon janiform "chair", with the same style heads. Dark patina, old repairs, a few small chips. H. 65.5 in. A very impressive piece!

76. -----Ceremonial covered bowl. Ovoid-shaped bowl with concave interior, flared circular foot. Numerous linear incised patterns: wavy lines, cross-hatching, triangles, etc. Four frogs(?) are spaced around the waist of the bowl. Slightly domed lid is fairly plain but for three well-carved standing figures, arms on waists/shoulders: a male, a female and a figure with bald head. Some losses, insect damage, but appears to be an old piece. One could say that it is Dogon, but... H. o/a 20 in.

77. -----Ceremonial Figure. A female kneels on a domed base with a child on her lower back straddling her buttocks & thighs. She holds a bowl atop her head with both hands. The bowl itself has a projecting undulating rim with incised cross-hatched patterns. Breasts and abdomen are scarified, and her coiffure is very narrow, ending in a slightly up-turned braid in back. Crusty/glossy brown/black patina. H. 42 in. A nice, old and very impressive piece!

**Tyi Wara--one of the most popular Bamana headdresses is the one depicting the roan antelope, used in Dyo-society agricultural fertility dances. We are pleased to offer a number of attractive examples, representing two of the three regional styles. These are danced in pairs, male & female , the latter usually having a "baby" on its back.

78. Beledugu type, female. On small, elongated base, low-slung body of mother with infant on its back standing on all four feet. Both have long faces, tall, vertical horns carved with spirals. The infant has a 2,5 in. section of its neck covered in knotted string. Both faces have iron ear-rings, a twisted copper/iron nose ring on the mother. A cute pair, painfully plain for these. See following lots! H, 35,75 in.

79. -----another, but this example more typical! Necks of mother & infant curve almost snake-like, gracefully. Incised patterns on faces, and as a single band on both sides of both bodies. The ends of their tall, vertical horns are hide-covered, with tufts of hair at the tips. Glossy brown patina, old repairs. An attractive and elegant piece!!! H. ca.38 in. o/all.

80. -----another, but this example is still attached to the basket work head-covering, itself decorated with knotted cord and cowries. Very similar to last, this piece has had metal sheeting applied to the faces, and as bands on the horns (sparingly, mind you). While the last item may have been somewhat angular, this one has more rounded form, the necks almost vertical. The infant antelope has long ears with red cord tufts & cowries, three flanges projecting on the neck as a "mane". mothers body has small, old nails and traces of other metal sheeting (lacking). Nice, glossy patina, areas of wear. A very nice item. H. w/o "cap" ca.34 in.

81. Segu style, male. While the previous type was "flatter" and more compact, this type is narrower and higher. On a typical rectangular base, a small, long body supports a multi-arched "mane" in openwork, with triangular projections between them short, almost vertical neck, and tall, almost vertical horns. Red cord tufts in ears. Profuse carved decoration to long faces and sides of body. Otherwise plain, really. Dark brown patina, glossy in areas. Old repairs. On museum-style wooden rectangular wooden base. Another nice item. H. 34,5 in.

82. -----another, very similar, but on the basket-work head-covering like on one of the previous examples. Cowries & beads in ears and nose. Old repairs, matte brown/black patina, and traces of a white, chalky pigment! H. w/o head-dress, ca.46 in.

83. -----another, large example, with seven arches in the "mane". Profuse carving overall. Red tufts in ears, old repairs, chip to base. A fine display piece! H 57,5 in.

84. Bobo (attributed to). Carved figure of a man with both hands on the handle of a hoe. He is shown "leaning into" his work, knees bent, arms and body forward. A very interesting item showing motion. Dark brown crusty patina, mounted on a rectangular hardwood base. Ht. of fig. 15 in.

DOGON

85. Ireli, mask of the white monkey. Rectangular face mask, with open bottom, creme-colored pigment, triangular eye-holes, surmounted by a crouching monkey, somewhat stylized. An affordable example of a rare type! H.22.5 in.

86. -----, another, but with a smaller monkey figure. 21.75 in.

87. Walu type, depicting a stylized antelope. Cubist-style (as usual) rectangular face. Two large horns above, border on l. & r. of face with small "ears" projecting. Red, black & white pigment in bands and triangles. Simple yet eye-catching example of a popular type! L.26 in.

88. -----Female figure, slightly crouching, holding bowl on top of head. Small figures both sides between elbows and haunches, multi-colored bead necklace. Piece is somewhat weathered, but attractive nonetheless. Large pieces such as this are now difficult to find. H 23.3 in.

89. Lobi (attributed to). "dance wands"(a pair). Carved in cylindrical form with tapered sections, flaring bases. One has a head with simple features, single top-knot, the other similar, but two-tiered top-knot. Both have carved "rings" around the "necks". Glossy/crusty brown/black patinas. L.15,75 & 16 in.

NIGERIA

90. Ibibio, terra-cotta storage jar, lidded. A large, footed onion-shaped vessel with geometric patterns below the rim, animal faces projecting from its waist. The openworked base consists of several figures supporting the bottom. Quite striking! H. ca.23 in.

91. -----another, the lid rather ornate with a facing human head serving as the handle. Human figures surround the waist of the vessel. H. 21 in. Lovely.

92. Igbo(Ibo), "Ofo". Shrine item, represents Tallow Tree twig bundle. Bronze, cire-perdu(lost wax casting)method. Used in ancestral (family) as well as personal shrines. Often heirlooms, these may be passed from father to son. Their basic function is in "judicial" situations to prove innocence of the bearer and represents the general concept of justice and propriety. Geometric designs, spirals with green & brown patina on top, smooth brown & black patina underside. Ex Chosak. Purchased London 1949. A wonderful old object!

93. -----Ritual Container. Flaring bowl with raised rim decorated with lines and stylized cowries. Central oblong section hollowed-out, otherwise the balance is solid. Tapered "handle" (bottle-stopper-shaped) adjacent. Dark, crusty patina. diam 14,5 in.

**for similar see SPB Auct 6 May 98, lot 339(w/lid). Also said to hold Kola nuts. A very interesting object!!

94. -----"Ikenga Madu", or Power Figure, for the "Cult of the hand", a warrior cult concerned with personal development. Standing male figure, holding knife in right hand and head(?)in left hand, "horns" on sides of the head curl forward. Covered with chalky substance, black accents. Appears to be an old piece. H. 15 in.

95. Ijo (attributed to), water spirit head-dress, Ekine Society. Glossy polychromed piece, very fanciful and abstract. Black horns either side of dome-shaped "face" with big eyes either side. Flat projections top and bottom, one with lots of polka-dots. Very colorful, with some age. L. 23,25 in.

YORUBA

96. -----totemic-style staff. Four figures surmount each other. Staff ends are faceted cones. From top to bottom: figure with arms at sides, figure holds object at chest, figure has hands in pockets, these all standing. Last figure is kneeling female with hands under breasts. Nicely carved in-the-round in the usual chunky style. Scarce item, and likely of religious nature. Nice shape with brown patina o/a. L.40,5 in.

97. "Oshe Shango" or Staff for Shango, the Thunder God. Actually a dance wand carried by devotees, this example in pale-colored wood. Female figure carved in-the-round surmounting a handle, arms outstretched holding a horse-shoe-shaped arch. Double ax-blade of Shango above. Traces of pigment, old repairs. Figural "oshe shango" are much sought after! L. 22 in.

98. -----another, but carving not as rounded. In dark colored wood, this figure has arms outstretched holding pillars, triangles either side of head, "double ax" above. Traces of pigment. L.20.3 in.

99. -----another, more rounded carving, but this piece has the figure holding vertical snakes either side. Above is the "double ax" with lizards carved upon each half. Figure has an ornate coiffure. dark, glossy patina. L,16.75 in.

100. -----another, but very simple., namely, a roughly carved "double ax" on a long handle. heavy patina, crusty. old. L.13.25 in.

101. -----"Iroke Ifa", or Divination tapper with the "jagun-jagun orisha" or Warrior God. An old piece and unusual in that these are usually ivory, rather than wood. Horn-shaped object with mounted warrior carved in-the-round mid-way its length. Used to tap the side of the Divination Platter to summon orisha Orunmila, or God of Destiny. Nice warm glossy brown patina, darker near tip. L.13,6 in.

102. -----"Oshe Elegba/Eshu", or wand of Eshu, the "trickster". Scepter with flaring base, atop which is carved bearded head with 3-tiered coiffure, tall knife-shaped projection from center of head. Glossy dark patina. L. 21.5 in.

103.-----Agere Ifa, or bowl to hold palm nuts for

Ifa Divination. Flattened, broad rims, below

which are four evenly-spaced lugs, all supported

by four seated figures (two male and two female),

well-carved. Black and creme pigments accent

features. circular base. Crack to bowl. D. of bowl

10.25 in.

**see SPB 20 May 87, lot #78 for a very similar,

lidded example. Interestingly, many such pieces

are shown w/o lids, so it probably makes

little difference.

104. -----"Ere Ibeji" or twin figure, carved to "replace" deceased twin child. Yoruba have unusually high number of twin births, so if one or both babies die, then these replace it spiritually (in a sense). This one is female, standing on circular base. Conical breasts, hands at sides with fingers turned in touching abdomen. Nicely carved and quite charming. H.10 in.

105. -----another, small male figure with pointed coiffure, pin-head eyes. chunky, blocky style. Bead necklace and "belt", traces of indigo on head. Nice, glossy patina. H.7 in. Very sweet!

**Helmet-masks for the Gelede Brotherhood are quite well-known. Made with many fanciful shapes and designs, they usually make good use of bright color. Worn on top of the head (not the face), the body is fully covered in costume, often quite colorful as well.

106. -----an example in typical style, with the face at the "front", pierced eyes, scarification on cheeks. The coloring is on the flat "cap"(white-washed), but some traces of polychrome . L.11.5 in.

107. -----another, black in color with high, three-row crested coiffure. red pigment to eyes, glossy patina, old repairs. Nice shape! H. 9 in., L.12.5 in.

108. -----another, this example with glossy polychrome. Face is olive, with black beard. crown-like headdress is quite ornate, green predominates with red, creme, splotches in multi-colour. Old repairs. A super piece. L.13 in, H.,9.5 in.

109. -----another, whimsical. yellowish face with black accents, red head-covering with black-striped green reptile (Croc?)on forehead, "tail" hanging behind. L. ca. 12.75 in, H.8.75 in. An old piece, too. A real charmer.

110. -----another, smallish, white-washed face, with blue-lined eyes, red lips. Coiffure is smooth, bare wood! L. 9.6 in., H. 6 in.

111. -----another, with bolder features, perhaps a little cruder. Face has large heart-shaped "ears", smooth coiffure jutting slightly over forehead. Bands with lozenges over brow, around chin and behind neck (losses behind neck). Much yellow, red, & other polychrome remaining. Pieces with elaborate head-dresses are always good to have! H.9 in.

112. -----another, with a superstructure. Rectangular, flat plank on top of head with a "family"! Yellow face has aqua "hair" and plank. Figures are yellow with black hair, various coloring to faces, clothed in multi-coloured scraps. Three figures, total, a little loose (the figures, not their morals). H. ca. 15 in. Cute and worth fixing!!

TERRACOTTAS

113. Ife Culture. A head in the classical style, female, perhaps. Lines (close together, like on the bronzes) incised on the face as usual, turban-like headdress, fat rings around neck. A very lovely modeling. Little wonder why Ife work rivals that of the classical world. H.12,75 in.

114. -----style similar to last, the coiffure close-cropped, the forehead incised with concentric arcs. H. 10 in.

115. -----another, as last but forehead is plain. H. 9,75 in.

116. -----short-necked face without the characteristic lines on the face. H.8,25 in.

A PAIR OF LOVELY & RATHER UNCOMMON NOK TERRACOTTAS

117. -----, a finely made terra cotta of a kneeling woman. She is hunched over on all fours as if grinding grain (or perhaps cleaning clothes). She is bare breasted, wearing a large collar. Nice facial detail throughout. Ht. 11.5 in. Classic style!!!

118. -----another. male figure, seated upon a tall mound, has a small object in its right hand, and what appears to be a flail in its left, over the shoulder. Numerous necklaces adorn this very attractive figure. H.17 in.

119. South Africa, Zulu, Knobkerrie or "kerrie", fighting club, ca. 19th-C. Long cylindrical shaft with slightly flared butt, ending in large, offset oblong head, waist slightly pinched. Glossy patina o/a, lighter on lower part of handle, darker with some crustiness further up. Couple of cracks, not detracting from appeal of this piece, which is super! L.25,6 in. ex Chosak colln.

ZAIRE

(former Belgian Congo)

**Due to the recent Civil War in the region, it is safe to say that not much in the way of local art may be available for a while. We suggest that you seek out older material when it is offered since you might not have another chance! Kindly consider the following lots:

120. Bembe (attributed to), male ancestral figure. Standing male, hands either side of protruding belly, on circular base. Face has multi-arched brows, coffee-bean eyes. Nose and mouth are quite stylized (looks like Homer Simpson!). Coiffure of the "usual" shape, cross-hatched in back. Nice old patina. Ht 22 in. Face looks Mbagani, though someone else might say Chokwe....

**The only problem with Zaire is that there are so many styles and sub-styles. Neighboring groups borrow and/or carve to/from/for each other. The upside, of course is that world-class objects emerge from this seeming confusion. So, it makes sense to keep an open mind when studying these objects!

121. Chokwe(attributed to), staff. Pale colored wood with accents in black. Two heads, separated by smooth cylindrical section with a single black band mid-length. Midway between the heads is a four-sided, lozenge-shaped, cross-hatched section. Heads bear scarification marks. L.37,35 in. on metal stand. Quite nice display.

122. -----Cihongo, or male face mask. Deep-set almond-shaped eyes with narrow slits, broad, "toothy" grin, flat projecting chin. Knotted bush-cane netted hair-covering still intact. Nice, dark patina. H.11,75 in. There seems to be more of the mwana-po type around than cihongo, BUT...(see next lot)

123. -----Mwana Po, or female mask. Finely-featured visage with narrow, delicate nose, finely-shaped, slit eyes, lips slightly parted, flat chin gently protruding...in other words, perfect! Cloth on rattan-framed, head-covering still intact. Heavy dark patina. really nice! H.o/a 15,5 in. Considered to be the ideal of beauty, like with the Dan.

124. Kongo, N'kondi-oath-taking & healing figure. Standing male figure, stocky proportions, on circular base. Hands are cupped in front of the stomach to form a deep cavity(to contain "magic" substances). Dark, glossy patina. H. 19,5 in.

125. -----Tutukipfula, or powder box (the local version of the European powder horn). Bulbous body with cone-shaped lid, the surface incised with ovals & cross-hatching. Made "inro"-form, in that tubes carved either side of pieces hold a cord to keep the lid from getting lost. A very scarce item. H.6.75 in.

**see SPB 10 May 88, lot #165 for similar.

126. -----Nkissi nkondi, or power figure. Standing warrior holding a spear in right hand, crusty coiffure colored with reddish pigment, raffia woven loin cloth around waist. Torso front is covered with seed shells, "magic" substances, more reddish pigment, etc. and bound to body with bush cane. A piece of mirror is glued to stomach. On circular base. Attractive display for a scarce type. H.23 in.

127. -----mask. Broad, oval face with ornate banded coiffure, well-carved features: very broad, flat nose, open mouth showing tongue, squared-off chin, cheek scarifications. Crusty-glossy black patina. A super-looking piece! L. 12,6 in.

128. Kuba, Pwoom Itok. An important mask type, this example still has the cane-framed, cloth-covered head-covering. Dark-colored, with prominent forehead, protruding eyes and nose. A series of holes has been drilled under the eyes(as usual), the mouth being a series of curved lines(rather abstract). L.10,5 in.

**The masker plays a wise, tired old man, to whom the other dancers come to consult. A fine, old example, worthy of attention.

129. -----Bwoom. large, broad simplistic face mask with narrow-slit, deep-set oval eyes. Large, broad nose, no mouth. Prominent "chin strap" curving around the chin from each temple. Dark, somewhat crusty black patina. An interesting piece worth studying. L 14,25 in.

AN ATTRACTIVE EXAMPLE OF

'THE' BWOOM MASK!!!

130. -----also Ngeende subgroup, Loom la Bwoom helmet mask. Considered a "royal" item, as it represents a person of modest standing whom the King, seduced by the dance, seeks to imitate. A very sumptuous piece. Usual form: helmet with prominent forehead, large, broad nose, with eyes, mouth and ears, all decorated with copper sheeting, multi-coloured beads, cowries, seeds, animal fur and cloth. A wonderful-looking piece, the likes of which should be in every mask collection!!! H. ca.12 in.

131. -----, Northern Substyle? Large oval mask with profuse incised carving on lower part of the face in bands, cross-hatched "hair" with a bulbous top-knot. Eight-point star on forehead containing a circle, eyes are cones, with three drilled holes beneath. Prominent, blocky nose, oval protruding mouth. Crusty brown/black patina. A very striking piece, the Kuba elements undeniable. L.22,5 in.

A VERY SCARCE VARIANT IN STYLE/MANUFACTURE!

132. Kusu, warriors knife. Leaf-shaped blade, almost triangular in form, with broad medial running almost entire length of blade, ending in narrow, thickened point! Handle of wood, with copper sheeting covering triangular-shaped section near the forte, brass tacks scattered on rest of pommel, smoothly patinated brown color. Evidence of wire wrap (lacking). Blade with mostly stable black oxide. On stand. H.16,75 in.

A BEAUTIFUL LUBA CHIEF'S FIGURAL STAFF WITH CARVING REMINISCENT OF THE BULI MASTER!

133. -----not wishing to detract from the main focus of this piece, the slender brown-colored shaft itself should be commented on. It appears to be lathe-turned, with a large knob finial. This turned section extends from the top of the figure ca. 6,5 in. and the shaft flares gently roughly 5 in. below it with a slight flare at the end which is set into a thick pointed, slim oval blade. Otherwise, the shaft is cylindrical, sections of which are wound with alternating white and bronze metal bands, nicely patinated. Now to the caryatid: a kneeling female with a long neck, stomach scarified, hands on breasts, white-metal tacks as accents on the ends of the four-lobed coiffure, on the forehead and temples. The oval face has a head-band and is delicate, with arched eyebrows meeting in a fine, slender nose, almond-shaped eyes with slits, lips in a gentle smile. L.55,25 in.

**A must-see item. Perhaps it isn't the Master, but it will be about as close as anyone of us will come to it!!! A wonderful item, near "Museum-quality"!

134. Lwalwa, Shifola mask of the Ngongo society. Typical pointed chin, rectangular eyes, small, circular tube-like mouth. But, with this type, the nose is short. Zig-zag design incised on front of coiffure, some traces of pigment around eyes and on cheeks. A nice example of a scarcer type. Crusty dark patina H.10,25 in.

135. Pende, Galukoshi, or Oracle, Katundu style. Miniature Mbuya mask with a feathered headdress is attached to a series of wooden sticks (nine), constructed in such a way that the mask-face can be extended, concertina-style. Used by diviners to identify evil doers: when the name is called out, the face springs toward the individual! Mask H. w/o feathers, ca.4 in. wonderful carving!

**See Christies 5 May 94, lot #143 for one just like it!

136. -----Kwilu, or Western, Mbuya masks, used in the Mukanda initiation society. A pair retaining the raffia & cloth head-covering. One, red-brown color, has an ornate "woven" coiffure, the other, brown with black & white accents, has a "toothy" open mouth, wide, slit eyes, chevron-shaped incised pattern on forehead. H.(each) ca.13 in. Bear in mind there are many different Mbuya characters, so this series is fun to collect.

137. Songye, Buanga, or power figure. Typical form, this example with an antelope horn stuck into the top of the head, metal sheeting tacked over the face around the nose, eyes, etc. Hands are at the sides of prominent belly, with a central depression for the Bijimba, or magic substances. Below the stomach is the "torso", actually a flaring base (some losses, insect damage). Dark patina, glossy/crusty. A nice example of a well-known type!!! H.25 in.

138. Kuba/Lega subgroup(?),miniature wooden mask("Passport"). Finely carved lozenge-shape with a flat back, forehead with prominent brow, inset oval eyes, well-defined nose & ears, small oval protruding mouth. Nice brown/black patina. L.2,75 in. an old piece. ex Chosak Col.

**one sees miniature masks(Pende, Songye, Lega) in ivory far more often than wooden ones from this region. Ivory is supposedly used by the higher grades in the Societies.

139. Unattributed, mask. Long narrow face ending in pointed chin. Prominent forehead with deeply-set slit eyes, large nose with flaring nostrils. Chevron-shaped lips. Traces of linear polychrome decoration on cheeks. Crusty brown patina, lots of eye appeal! L. 23 in.

AN ELEGANT AND FINE WEST AFRICAN THREE-LEGGED STOOL

140. Made from a section of tree-trunk, this concave seat has six "lugs" on its rim; three located where the legs emerge from under the rim, and three spaced in between. Cylindrical legs gently bow outwards, tapering slightly . Old native repair to one leg. One "lug" with worn chip, this last perhaps intentional. Patina o/a is glossy to matte. The seat is heavily patinated in chocolate brown, turning black proceeding over and beneath the rim, all glossy. The bottom of seat and legs have mostly matte black patina. Diam. of seat o/a ca.18,5 in., H. 14,75 in. ex Chosak.

**SPB, 5 May 97, lot #295 sold (gross) $575! Perhaps the "mate" to this object, though we feel our example is more pleasing.

ASIA/PACIFIC REGION

141. Ceylon (Sri Lanka)-Kolam mask of the Naga-rassa, or snake demon. A very tall and exceedingly colorful piece, reminiscent of Balinese work in that it is quite detailed. Red face with open, fanged mouth, snakes emerging. Prominent nose, snakes also emerging from nostrils. Large dome-shaped eyes, painted black & white. On forehead and above are snakes--lots and lots of snakes--intertwined in every fashion. In the middle of the forehead, a small, flared snake faces, but on TOP of the head, there are three large flared snakes facing front, with two more flanking, one on each side. How can we describe the colors??? The rainbow! H.29,25 in. Masks from Ceylon are not often seen on the market...

142. China-Ceremonial/Processional Fan, ca. 19th century. Rigid, oval-shaped of red-lacquered wood with mother-of-pearl inlay on both sides. Front side: l. & r. of the central ridge of the handle are two kidney-shaped panels, each with a stylized dragon. In the field are small applied sacred & lucky symbols. Black panels of inlay at top, bottom & center contain lozenge-shape pieces. Rev: almost the same but for square inlaid pieces in both of the Dragon panels. Minor chips only, making this an attractive piece. L. 18,5 in.

143. -----small, cast brass two-handled censer. H.1,6 in., diam. ca. 2,75 in. brown/black patina, crusty in places. Marked DA MING XUAN DE (1426-35)on foot. Likely a Qing casting but still old! On wooden base.

144. -----bronze "Art Nouveau"-style vase, beautifully custom-cast. Short circular foot, signed 2 characters. Convex base with flaring, bell-shaped body, narrowing along neck, then widening ever so slightly to mouth. Two thin curved handles at the sides with spread palm-fronds at origins and insertions. Heavy weight piece, old repairs. ex Chosak. Ht. 12,25 in. diam. of base ca. 5,5 in.

145. Fiji, Vunikau or dromu, or root-stock club. Cylindrical shaft with head showing small "knobs" overall, but fairly smooth compared to other types. Long, straight grain in light/dark contrasts make this a very attractive item. L. 17,25 in.

146. -----Ula, or throwing club. Carved from the root-mass. Very impressive large, spherical head (natural openings here-and-there), ca. 4,75 in. diameter. Lower half of the cylindrical handle is incised all around with vertical bands of zig-zag lines. Butt of handle pierced twice. L.18 in. nice, dark, smooth patina. **SPB 5 May 97, lot #329 for a nearly identical example. Old for sure!

147. -----another, different style. Long cylindrical shaft, flaring gently to flattened ovoid head with "nipple" in center. Straight-grained hardwood has attractive glossy dark brown patina overall, a little lighter towards the butt. L.26 in. ex Chosak. A lovely piece.

148. Hawaii-Lei, feathers. A lovely lei in green shades with red and yellow in alternating bands, on what appears to be a black satin cord. The feathers are in wonderful condition, and take up almost all of the interior linear dimensions of a clear Lucite box, measuring 11 x 8,25 x 2,5 in. Very rare and beautiful!!!

**see SPB 6 May 98, lot #23, as it contains one. Also, please refer to the book, Artificial Curiousities, as a number of feather leis are illustrated.

149. -----Pohaku ku'i'ai or Food pounder. Bell-shaped basalt of typical, elegant form, the base quite flared. Dark gray color with areas of smoothened wear. H.7,25 in. est diameter of base 5,75 in. A wonderfully ancient item!!

150. India-Provincial. A pair of bronze cast figures, "Gumby"-like in appearance. Bejeweled standing female with lop-sided coiffure, wearing necklaces, slingy skirts, breasts bare. Left hands are on their abdomens, right hands hold what appears to be a "flail"(?). One on circular base, the other on a square base, the latter mounted on a wood base. Greenish light Patina, some encrustation. Hts. 5,25 and 5,75 in.

151. Marquesas Isl., hakakai or Earplug. Carved sperm whale tooth. Oval base has been carved down to a platform from which rises a pointed tooth-shaped projection, pierced through the base. A tiki-like figure on its back is carved mid-way the length of the tooth. Smooth, light honey color overall. Super piece in timeless style! H. 3 in, base L. 2.5 in. See R. Linton, "Material Culture of the Marquesas Is.," Bishop Museum, 1923. pl. 79 C for similar example.

152. New Hebrides, Mace-head hand club; likely 19th-Century!! Shaft is cylindrical, flaring at the butt, gently narrowing about 2/3rds up where it steps-up to form the head. Eight-flanged (but one lost in battle long ago--site has smooth wear!) head, curved nose. Very elegant form with deep, heavy, brown-black glossy old patina. A must-see piece!!! L. 19 in. ex Chosak Colln.

**see book Artificial Curiosities: artifacts collected on Voyages of Captain. Cook...The N. Hebrides section has a drawing of a similar piece!

153. New Zealand, Maori. Wahaika, or hand club. Dark hardwood with lovely, straight grain, violin-shaped body with sharpened edges. Pommel is carved as a bird head. Wrapped around the waist of the club is a carved bird-headed creature with claws & a fish-like tail. Eyes of faces inlaid with shell. Nice carving style. A famous group of hand-held weapons. L.16 in.

154. -----Adze blade of banded greenstone. Tear-drop shaped with very sharp broad edge about 2,9 in. Wide, oval cross-section, tapering down to a point. Lovely veining, smooth, with nice patina. L.10,9 in. An ancient piece, though PNG origin cannot be ruled-out.

155. Oceania, Tapa cloth beater. Hardwood, four-sided rectangular section, three sides having four or five deeply incised vertical grooves, last side smooth. Handle is cylindrical, flaring slightly at the butt. Warm brown color, nice old patina. Areas of obvious wear. L.11.5 in. Beaters are very scarce and were also used in barter. Hopefully this is Hawaiian. If Tongan, still OK, because it is old!!!

156. -----Tapa cloth! The previous lot was used to break-up the plant fibers to produce this material, any size, from clothing to long-house floor covering!!! Ca. 4 by 6 feet, this fine example has a wide border of four alternating black lines. It contains three vertical panels: left, on a brown ground, seven large white Hibiscus flowers, middle, three horizontal rows of three spades, again on brown ground, with alternating black rows of geometric patterns, and right, black-bordered brown & white lozenges. A lovely piece, Tonga or Fiji? ex Bastien colln., Hong Kong, ex Chosak colln.

157. -----Food pounder. Made of basaltic stone, smoothly-finished & polished. Mushroom-shaped head, tapers to conical body ending in a flared foot. Gray-green color with black speckles. H.5 in. A type likely used in the region, though a similar type was also used in the Pacific N.W. (America). An attractive object.

IMPORTANT AFRICAN WOOD CARVING

FROM NIGERIA

158. Ibibio, a very old and important wood dance mask! Nude male figure sits atop block seat. He wears small black hat; with purple cloth band around it. Similar purple cloth around waist. His arms extend at right angles and are held out in front of him.. Bracelets are painted a similar purple color. With original white paint with black highlights. Very similar in style to the marioettes from the same culture. The entire piece sits atop bacse which has raffia cushion at extreme bottom. In choice condition, left arm with old repair; very RARE! On very old wood block stand. H: 24.5".

PAPUA, NEW GUINEA

Papua New Guinea-the very prolific Sepik River region has always been known for its Art, and we are pleased to say that it is well-represented in this section, though items from the Highlands and Blackwater Lakes areas are also offered. We have done our best to locate/identify the villages and/or areas of origin, but we suggest you examine those items of interest to you. In any case, you may not have the opportunity to obtain old pieces again---anything made PRE-1960 is Prohibited Export!!!!

FIGURES, INSTRUMENTS,

WEAPONS, ETC.

159. Blackwater Lakes, Kaningra village (near Amboin), southern East Sepik Province. House Ornament(?)with red, white, black pigments, very elongated oval face with broad nose, wide, toothy grin, bird on forehead, long pointed chin terminating in two oblong projections. Fish at the bottom, saw-toothed projections from ear-to-ear around chin. Cowry-inset eyes. Usual deeply-carved patterns o/a. A VERY striking MUST-see piece! Back is flat save for a carved loop for suspension in, or outside of long house. L. ca.87 in.

160. -----same area but location n/a. Cult hook. A very impressive piece. long, oval face with chevron-shaped carved patterns. Central spine projections resemble those of a Kamanggabi, ( Cult Hook very abstract in form)....two large "bow-tie" shaped sections with large lozenge-shaped sections in-between terminating in a crescent-shaped hook with flat back. Well-carved, nice black patina, glossy/crusty in areas. L. ca.76 in. Attractive for type, and reportedly old.

161. Enga Province, Southern, Kandep area (nr. Mt. Hagen), Porokal(sic)v. Ax. Old tag says former owner was lopo morak, maker, yamoni(!). Nice, smooth, dark tapering shaft, bound with dark patinated bush-cane to a smooth, flattened oval cross-piece. Contains a broad flat gray-green blade. L.21,6 in., H. 18 in. Obviously very old binding a little loose, but quite attractive for type.

162. Madang Province, Lower Ramu River area. Kundu or Gama(hand drum). Hour-glass-shaped body, reptile skin head. Incised geometric designs in triangular-shaped sections top & bottom, both sides, neck with rows of circles within serpentine bands, "eyes" carved on each end of handle. Considerable red-ochre pigment. Initials carved into handle. Attractive item! H. 26 in.

163. -----another, but handle has hooked-nose faces either end. Bush-cane knots accent the piece numerous places. Traces of red & white pigment. Attractive, as Ramu work always is! H.22,25 in.

164. Highlands Provinces, "Bridal"(?) head covering. Woven bush-cane openwork head-covering. Decorated with nassa shells with scattered cowry accents. Panels are ca. 0,75 in. wide, interconnecting, but terminating in a point. Shells are surprisingly intact. This can be considered bride wealth, so of course it has "value". Very scarce! L. ca.35 in. Choice condition and on metal stand.

165. Papuan Gulf (or Massim areas?), coconut shell container (for Betel nut?). Ornate, shallow-carving o/a, faces on opposite ends (one with an opening("mouth?). Large oval openings either side of a "handle". Black & yellow accents in serpentine, spiral oval, and florette patterns. Not common. diam. ca.5,5 in. Ex Bastien coll, Hong Kong, ex Chosak.

166. Middle-Lower Sepik River area. Canoe prow. Well-rendered crocodile head with protruding eyes, mouth filled with very sharp teeth!!! Black pigment o/a. Simply rendered but quite sweet. L. ca. 13,5 in.

**it is said that these beasts won't open their mouths to bite you if they are underwater. So, the locals feel around with their FEET until they locate one to catch....we think we'll pass on this method of fishing...

167. Sepik River Provinces(?),cassowary bone arrow-shaft straightener(?). Overall trapezoidal-shaped lightweight openwork bone section. Honey patina. L.4,9 in. Interesting object, worth further study.

168. Upper Sepik area. Cassowary bone lime spatula. Narrow "blade" with carved finial in the form of a cockatoo bird, well-modeled, wings out at sides. Traces of reddish pigment. Dark, crusty/glossy patina. On wood base. L.15,25 in. Very scarce from this area.

169. -----another, with bird-head finial, nassa-shell & cowry-decorated woven bush-cane "head-dress" with a long tassel. A super piece! L. o/a 12 in. Also very scarce.

CASSOWARY BONE DAGGERS

170. Sepik River, Maprik/Wosera near Kwoma/Washkuk v. A pair of daggers, incised with various patterns, both having a "face" carved near the epiphysis. Black, crusty patina. Scarce types, naturally. L 13 & 14 in. It isn't often one finds a PAIR of these offered.

171. -----and Lower Sepik, Tambanum v. The epiphysis has black clay "face" molded over it, with nassa shell & cowry eyes & accents. Feather "hair", knotted bush-cane tufts in ears. Crusty/glossy black patina to blade. Cute piece, and appears intact o/w. L. w/o feathers 13 in.

172. Western Provinces, perhaps Nomad area(?). A large, unadorned example, honey color, glossy patina. L.15,5 in. Scarce from this area which is in the south.

173. Western Sepik Province, Massim area. Horn, blown to warn of danger and/or call an assembly. Tube-shaped overall, with slight ridge either side, faces carved around open end. Finial appears to be stylized Crocodile head, flanked by two elongated faces. Oblong blow-hole just below finial. Profuse carving with yellow & red pigments on a black ground. L.31,25 in.

174. Papuan Gulf (attributed to), Southern Gulf Province, Kavava v. Tree bark 2-D "plaque-figure". Shallow-carved standing female(?), pointed head, prominent long nose, crescent-shaped mouth. Simple features o/w. Hands on hips, legs apart. Mottled, dark crusty patina. Scarce, of course. L. 20,25 in.

175. -----another, male(?). this example with more fully-incised features. Body more angular, head trapezoidal-shaped. Dark pigmented patterns to torso & upper arms, the rest plain . L. 17,75 in. Cute.

176. Middle Sepik River area, Maramba v. Cult Hook. A standing male figure, carved in-the-round, arms at sides, feet over a crescent-shaped hook. Eyes are conus shell ends, mouth open, showing tongue. There is a bird-head on the forehead, and frigate bird on the back of the head. Dark, crusty patina. A very impressive piece. H.63,25 in.

177. -----another, even better-looking (if one can imagine). Face has a broad nose, closed mouth. BUT, there is a crocodile standing on the left side of the face, a lizard(?) on the right side, and frigate birds (maybe)on the left and right sides of the lower legs. Otherwise as last(!). H. 67 in. An impressive item.

178. -----Kanganaman v., Food Hook. Long, slender female figure flanked by two frigate birds, crocodile head surmounting all. Figure stands on triangular-shaped hook with a face on its front. Black, crusty patina. Delicate openworked carving, and quite nice. L. 43,75 in.

179. -----Yam-cult Harvest head, "yena"(?). Lozenge-shaped face with prominent brow, concave face with tube-like eyes, semi-oval panels on forehead above eyes, simple nose and protruding, smiling mouth. Flange bordering face, long, cylindrical handle originating from under chin, tapering almost to a point. Black, red pigment on lower part of face, some old cracks. L. 31,5 in.

**see Christies, 22 Jun 93, Lot #162, attributed to the KWOMA, called a yena. Scarce and interesting piece!!!

180. -----Washkuk area(?), Cult hook, style similar to preceding. Oval face with prominent brow, central ridge with semi-circular depressions above, eyes as simple circular projections, the nose just a ridge with stylized Boars Tusks in the nostrils. Cylindrical "body", with arms meeting in front half-way down, all ending in upturned hook with oval projections either side. Traces of red & creme pigment, crusty mud patina. A nice, old piece. L. 24 in. Washkuk is Upper Sepik area, so attribution not confirmed....

181. -----village n/a, Ancestral figure. Slender, on domed base, with oversized black domed head, reddish body. Creme-colored face, cowry eyes with nose in a graceful curve, narrowing down to pubic area. Arms bent at waist. Graceful carving and quite attractive. H. 23,5 in.

182. -----Torembi v., Ancestral figure. Slender standing male on conical base. Conus-shell-inset stalked eyes, oval face with gaping, crocodile-like mouth, feathers and hair on top. Nassa and cowry-shell inset black clay on the forehead and around the chin(some losses on lower face). Back has six tooth-like projections(one lacking), long reptilian tail behind. Bush-cord accents. Super-looking figure--"Crocodile-man"! H.40 in.

183. -----Korogo v.(?), Ancestral figure (resembles Orators stool somewhat). Male figure seated in MIDDLE of circular platform, feet in front on conical base, kneeling figure behind, arms raised, snakes on either side. Face is large, oval, reddish with black linear mostly vertical designs. Conus-shell eyes, prominent nose, grinning lips. Dark, crusty patina, some old cracks to base. Traces of reddish pigment in deeply-carved areas of figure. H. 29 in. lovely!

184. -----another, larger figure. The stool support is plain, though. Some slight pigment losses to face, black, crusty patina. Nice item o/a. H. 38,25 in.

185. East Sepik Province, wingei v., near Maprik, House Ornament. Consisting of two faces, duplicated, connected chin-to-chin. Plug-like protruding eyes,the nose has stylized boars tusks(?) in nostrils, & at the end of the tongue on the chin. Polychrome in spirals, bands, rows of dots, etc. Striking piece! L. 71 in.

186. Middle Sepik River area, Ancestral figure. Standing male, arms at sides, pendant phallus, on carved rectangular base. Oval face with usual grimace, broad nose, carved accents to face & torso, distinctive marks carved around navel. Eyes are conus-shell ends, with another shell section inserted into forehead. Reddish pigment o/a, with some crusty creme pigment on back. Well-done! H.61 in.

187. Sepik River area. Ancestral figure(totemic). On domed base: from bottom to top: squatting figure holding in bent arms a stylized parrot head, above which are two other birds, l. and r., figure becomes chin of a larger face with long, hooked nose, long projections curving up from nostrils to ears. This face surmounted by head and front legs of mammal(tree kangaroo?). Cowry eyes, cordage necklaces and armlets, bracelets as accents both sides, cane frame around piece with feather inserts. A few old repairs, but a SUPER PIECE!!!! Must-see! H.60 in.

188. Upper Sepik area. Roof finial.It appears to be a "face" with arched brow, protruding eyes surrounded by rosettes. Brow "splits" into two arches either side of face, ending beneath chin with stylized crocodile head. Below is downwards curving projection, flared base. All of the carving has reptilian features(scales, vertical projections etc.). Wonderful old, dark patina, and very scarce, too! Attractive! H.21,5 in.

189. Blackwater Lakes, Spirit figure!!! On high, plain oval base, standing figure with small arms, stylized mouth, narrow nose. The "face" consists of two large vertical elongated ovals-within-ovals, with "eyes" in center. Base and body are black, torso & arms, white and red, with alternating creme, red and black in ovals. Black outlines. back "spine" is a row of black, pyramids on a white vertical band. One big pair of eyes with legs! Very Scarce!!! H.30,75 in. REALLY wonderful display and abstract in the truest sense!

190. Sepik River area, Spirit figure. Standing male figure on conical base, polychromed oval face with prominent nose, bone through septum. Beneath chin is a very long cylindrical projection, terminating in an animal head(?). Face and this projection was covered with reddish-brown clay, inset with small cowries. Surprising amount of carving visible beneath clay on face! Considerable losses, but still impressive. H.69,5 in.

MASKS OF ALL KINDS!!!

191. Middle Sepik, Maprik/Wosera, Kwaringia(?) v. Yam mask, "Mosquito nose" type. Basket work, as is usual for these types.A small example: conical helmet but with short nose(female?), white & red pigments on black ground. Raffia tufts in ears and around chin. Nice shape, pigments quite intact. This type not called "baba". H.14 in.

192. Middle-Upper Sepik, Wosera area, Washkuk v., baba. Openwork-style, more compact(nose against face). Dome-shaped, with very high, crested coiffure, quite attractive. "Doughnut"-shaped eyes. Mainly red crusty pigment on black, with traces of white accents. In nice shape, and very attractive for type(as they often get rather ugly!). H.18,25 in.

193. -----another baba. Upper Sepik area?(hopefully, but probably not). Very small, light piece. Openwork style like last but just large enough to cover face. L. 11 in. Basket work is much finer...natural color with some black accents around the "eyes".

194. Middle Sepik area, Tambanum v., Tumbuan. Domed basket work helmet-head-dress with rattan & cane-framed Frigate bird on top, wings out-stretched. Helmet has large, disc-shaped eyes, openings on sides and base. Usual polychrome. H. ca.20 in o/a, bird L.32 in., wingspan 24 in. Neat piece! Nice shape.

**see Masks & the Art of Expression, ed. by John Mack(Brit Mus.), p.70. fig.39 for a piece just like this one. These represent spirits from the era of Creation.

195. -----another, much larger Tumbuan! Conical rattan & cane framed body-covering, with raffia "skirt". On its side and at the very top are oval-framed "faces", broad face with projecting eyes, ski-slope nose and broad, open mouth. Painted overall in wavy bands of creme and red-brown on a black base. H.55 in. (w/o "skirt"). Good example in very nice shape!

196. -----another, similar. Face has prominent nose with multi-coloured raffia beard, long raffia skirt. Slender basket work arms, with stick "fingers" at sides. Palm spathe washer-shaped "eyes" & nostril insertions. Four horizontal sticks through the nose area, knotted cane accents on body. Vertical bands of red, black, creme on body, black-outlined creme face. Head ends in "point"(a little unraveled). Neat piece! H. w/o raffia ca.30 in.

197. -----another similar, but taller and plainer: no arms, no raffia under chin, no spathe on face. H. ca.33 in.

198. -----same area, Angriman v., Gable Mask. A spirit mask placed on the long-house gable to protect its residents from disaster, illness especially. This one is basketry and sago spathe, with a raffia "beard". Red & white linear designs on black ground. Forehead has large sago sections sewn-together to form a central ridge. Face is concave with short, tube-eyes, ski-slope nose, broad, toothless grin. L.o/a ca,32 in. Nice example, hard to get now.

199. -----attributed to Angriman, but might be Blackwater Lakes? Gable mask, similar to previous lot. Red-brown color o/a with black & creme accents around eyes and on upper lip. No sago spathe, though. Nice example. L. 19 in.

200. -----another, larger and more decorated piece. Similar but face is mostly black with black, creme & red bands around the eyes, black with red & creme spots on upper lip. Feathers attached to nose, multi-coloured raffia beard. Quite attractive!!! L. ca. 19,5 in. w/o raffia.

**Ramu River area, Madang Province. Some call it "Lower Sepik" which really isn't quite the same because we have always found the styles to be different. Other items from this area are scarcer, too...... EVERYONE wants to visit the Sepik, due to its obvious fame, so they forget about poor, little Ramu. Well, they're MISSING OUT!!!!!

**The "Mwai" mask type represents the visage of a supernatural being, a totemic clan ancestor, and is used in initiation ceremonies....a couple of nice examples follow:

201. -----Watam v. a totemic style piece. Small face with hooked nose surrounded by carved circles, etc. is separated from the lower, larger face by four fish-hook-like projections. Main face has a large, hooked nose, oval eyes with slits, band of shallow-carved decoration across cheeks & around mouth, toothed border around chin. Red-brown color o/a. L.25,5 in.

202. -----usual shape, but creme pigment o/a with brown eyes, black ovals on cheeks with white spots, brown borders. Short nose, shallow-carved bands with patterns on forehead and around mouth. Some small projections on the forehead, toothed border around chin, small conical extension below. Really attractive !! L.26,25 in.

BACK TO THE SEPIK RIVER AREA:

203. Lower Sepik area, Murik Lakes(?). Spirit mask. Narrow face with small projections either end, flat back. Nose is short, bulbous, shallow-carved arched brow, circular eyes (not pierced through) surrounded with light patterns on cheeks. Red-brown pigment o/a. L.22,25 in.

204. -----attributed to, Spirit(?)mask. Elongated oval face with red pigment, predominantly black around the top and bottom of face. On forehead: superior, red human face, inferior, red & black bird. On chin, an animal head(tree kangaroo?) pointing upwards. Usual incised patterns o/a. Oval eyes not pierced. Small crack on side. Nice item. L.38,5 in.

205. -----indabu v., Spirit mask. Similar to previous in coloring: red face, black with red-accented forehead & cheeks, creme pigment in incised areas; long nose coming to a point at chin. Conical projection on each cheek, bird on forehead. Very small tear-drop slit eyes, small frowning mouth. An attractive piece. L.31 in.

206. Middle Sepik area, Mindimbit, Korogoro v.(attributed to). Spirit mask. Elongated face, typical cowry eyes, red & white pigment on black ground. Nose juts vertically OUT from face, ending in a point!!! This is the type seen in the reference books. Super looks!!!! L. ca.22 in.

207. -----another Mindimbit piece. Long, angular-featured face, usual cowry eyes, red accents on black base. Figure with splayed legs surmounts the forehead(also with cowry eyes), usual carved patterns, but otherwise fairly simple like it SHOULD be. Nicely carved and worth a look! L.33,25 in.

208. -----another, yentchen v., Mwai mask. Oval face with oval eyes on a vertical axis with toothed borders. Nose is long, pointed over lower half of face. Feather fringe. Pigments in red, yellow, creme & black. Nice piece. L. 18 in.

209. -----Kanganaman v., near Chambri Lakes, Spirit mask. Large elongated oval, saw-toothed borders between ears & chin. Prominent forehead drops to chevron-outlined narrow slit eyes, long, flat tapering hook nose, small crescent-shaped mouth, crouching figure on the upper lip, and below, an animal head with its arms wrapping around the chin. Wide band of rows of incised triangles on forehead. On each temple, female standing figures with coiffures tapering to points. Crusty brown patina o/a. A really super-looking piece. L. 39,25 in.

210. Upper Sepik area, Washkuk v. Dance mask, said to be for Yam Harvest(but not sure). Oval face, smooth, w/o nose, almond-shaped eyes, chevron-shaped open mouth with tongue. There are "arms" and "legs" around mask, top and bottom. Bird head at very top. Yellow, creme & red on a black base. L. 22 in. Cute mask!

211. -----Mwai mask. Elongated oval face with multi-stepped, conical eyes within red & white speckled vertical ovals. Long nose ridge curving down to chin, broad nostrils,. Protruding red tongue. Ochre, red creme accents outlined in black, arched projections on forehead. A very different look!!! L. 23,25 in.

212. Middle Sepik, Korogo v. , Mwai mask. Prominent forehead with small cowries in eyes, narrow, short nose coming to a point, but with black clay packed around near its end, inset with nassa shells, boars tusk tips! Carved overlapping crescents as usual. Black, red & creme pigments. A VERY striking piece!!! L. 29,25 in.

213. -----another.Long face with arching nose terminating at chin, and an extension forming a stylized birds head. Black clay around the edge of the face, on forehead, and nose, all with nassa- and cowry-shells inset. Faux boars tusks in nostrils. Face itself is reddish with fine, mostly vertical black lines, forming chevrons on chin. A scarce type and old patina, too! L. 28,25 in.

214. -----Tambanum v. Souvenir mask. Long oval, flat back, high, domed forehead, long nose, chin with nassa-shell inset clay(some losses), raffia beard. White & black accents on red ground. Cute piece. L. 29 in. w/o beard.

215. -----"Shamans mask"(?). Elongated oval: bottom is a heart-shaped, creme face, cowry eyes outlined in black, red linear patterns on face. Above the face are the usual kidney-shaped patterns within serpentine borders. Ovals & squares alternating red & creme border, black accents. Two snakes either side of forehead medial. Neat-looking piece. L. 27,25 in.

216. -----attributed to Tambanum v., Ancestral mask. Very long, slim face, with black clay inset with nassa shells, cowry-bordered, all around a creme-colored face: pairs of semi-circular red lines radiating out from cowry-inset eyes. Boars tusks in nostrils, black dog teeth (in clay) on forehead with feathers above, nose extends to bottom of face, reptilian appearing, terminating with a bird, some losses to clay. At r. temple, o/w quite nice. Heavy patina. L.(w/o feathers). ca.31 in. BUT, this piece looks more like angriman v.!!!

217. -----attributed to Torembi v., Dance mask. Oval face with open eyes, mouth, nose (septum). Four mound-like projections, one each temple and cheek. Raffia beard, forehead covered with a large piece of skin(fish??). Wicker frame for attachment to head behind. Red, black with creme accents, creme spots being around the face. Well-carved and quite interesting. L. ca,19,25 in.(w/o raffia). BUT, piece is probably tambanum v.!!!

218. ----- Chambri Lakes, aibom v.(attributed to), Gable Mask. Oval with nassa-and cowry-shell inset black clay features on dark-colored wood. The clay is molded as the eyes, mouth, nose and brows, and also framing the face itself. Basket work "brim" on forehead with feather accents. Raffia beard. L. w/o raffia ca.30,5 in. This piece more resembles the Lower Sepik, Yuat R., biwat v. , so be advised.

219. Middle Sepik(attributed to), Spirit(?)mask. Oval, almost circular face with large, circular "eyes", small "half-moon" pupils in center, very small nose. Pyramid-shaped mouth. crusty, black patina. Very interesting piece, worthy of further study. H. 13 in.

220. -----attributed to, Ancestral(?)mask. Lovely oval face, black but for creme and red accents, cowry eyes. Broad nose with red upturned protrusions from nostrils(stylized boars tusks), broad, grinning mouth. Face resembles the M. Sepik figures! Quite attractive, and worth examination. L. 17,25 in.

221. Blackwater Lakes, kabriman v., Ancestral mask. oval face with conus-shell inset center of large creme-colored "eyes", broad nose with large nostrils, toothy grin. Face in creme, reds with some black accents. areas of black ground with red & creme speckles. Quite attractive. L. 31,5 in., W.14,75 in.

222. -----attributed to, Spirit mask. Long, oval face with prominent brow, cowry eyes, broad nose, grimace with protruding tongue. Frigate bird on forehead, wings outstretched, with rosettes contained in saw-toothed circles either side of tail. Creme & red accents on black ground, bush cord tufts in ears, nose. Nice piece. L. ca.36 in. BUT, could be mindimbit v. !!!

223. Lower Sepik area(attributed to), Spirit(?)mask. Elongated oval, surrounded with raffia "beard". Reddish pigment on "face" o/a, creme pigment in ornate, incised areas: spirals, toothed circles, chevrons, zig-zags, etc. The face: top & bottom are well-detailed, prominent heads of mammals(tree kangaroo?), their "arms" curving around both sides of the forehead and chin. In center is a prominent brow dropping to oval-shaped eyes, in this case overlain with pearl shell! Hooked nose, not too long, with chevron-shaped projections midway down cheeks extending from it(stylized boars tusks?). Two tooth-like projections, one each cheek. Forehead: connecting two raised zig-zag carved bands left & r. are two arches, in the middle are four over-lapping tooth-like projections. L. w/o raffia ca.35 in. One heck of a lovely mask!!!

224. Philippines, tribal, staff. Smoothly-finished, cylindrical dark wood, tapering to a point; finial has two standing figures, male & female, male superior, one atop the others shoulders. Diminutive, but carved in-the-round, the finial is quite charming! L.o/a 54 in.

**Oceanic spears of any vintage are nearly impossible to locate these days. One sees clubs and the like, but perhaps spears, owing to their length, were not easily collected and transported. We are pleased to offer the following two lots, so as to afford you the opportunity to obtain examples of these elusive and exotic items!

225. Solomon Islands, San Cristoval (attributed to), spear. The "business end" (roughly half the length) is lozenge-shaped in cross-section. From this mid-part for about 12,5 inches back towards the pointed tip is a row of carved teeth(only one chipped!) ca.0,5 in. high. The remaining three edges are ridged, extending about 20 in. from this mid-part towards the point. The other half of the spear is circular in cross-section. Nice old, dark color and patina. L. 114 in. Probably ex Oldman colln., London.

226. Tonga (attributed to). Spear. Tip is four-sided with carved barbs along about 15 inches of its length, on each side, a central vertical ridge. Below this section, the handle flares slightly to openwork motif, below which is an incised pattern consisting of ovals in vertical bands. Rest of piece tapers almost to a point. Lovely patina and quite old !!! L. 105,5 in. probably ex Oldman colln., London.

MEXICAN MASKS FROM GUERRERO

Masked dances have been popular in Mexico since pre-Conquest times. Today, masks of all kinds are made all over Mexico, but those of the state of Guerrero are avidly collected because of the great variety and workmanship, especially those carved by the Nahua people. We are pleased to offer a number of very decorative and collectable pieces, acquired many years ago. Where possible, the dances have been identified.

Dance of the 7 Vices

227. -----a pair of polychromed masks, one predominantly red, with a white Salamander "nose", the other, predominantly orange, has a blue-green bat on the face. Lengths 9, 8,5 in.

228. -----another pair, one, pink predominating,. Has a coiled snake "nose"(greenish), the other is beige with a lovely yellow-spotted blue and black Bat "nose". A very charming pair! Lengths

230. 9,25 in.

DANCE OF LOS TEJORONES(?)

229. -----a face mask, red predominating, with a green and red alligator "nose" running the length of the face. Old repairs. cute. L. 9 in.

230. -----another, with a white face with black hair and red up-turned mustache and goatee, above a blue-green alligator head. It has wood- peg teeth in a gaping yellow mouth. Nice rendering. L.15.75 in

CHILAPA-CORPUS CHRISTI

231. -----a large mask with a lavender face with full black beard, surmounted with a pink angel face with tall, arching wings either side of face. H.17 in.

232. -----another, elaborate mask with a pink face in center with a black upturned mustache, goatee, surmounted by a red & green crowned white face top center, below and above which is a green & blue winged creature(a duck?), wings outstretched. Very impressive. L.22.5 in.

233. -----a pair--yellow faces with long black beards, surmounted by Bats. One has a gray, white and red face (ears lacking on bat), the other has a brown bat, green snake biting hanging onto beard at bottom with its teeth! Cute. L.19,5 in, 20 in.

234. -----another pair. One, a pink face with full black beard surmounted by a brown & white Bat. Mouth of face is articulated, the chin in the form of a green & white alligator head. The other has red color predominant, black hair and full beard. In between beard, under chin is a yellow animal face (jaguar??). L.18.25 in., 17.75 in.

235. -----another large mask, perhaps same type, with a pink face, toothy small and large nose with black beard & hair, surmounted by a Jaguar face, yellow with red & green spots. A charmer! L. 16,5 in.

236. Pastorella-A "Diablo"(devil)mask-brown face with gray & pink-striped horns, red mouth with silver fangs, large brown cow-like ears. Well carved! L.15,25 in.

237. Navidad(?)-a pair. One, predominantly green, with black full beard, with blue band on forehead, red & green crown above. The other, large pink face with black full beard, vertical coils of hair either side of forehead, and six spiral-shaped multi colored "mounds" on forehead, yellow star at end of the beard below the mouth. A very impressive piece! L.16 in, 19,75 in.

238. Moors & Christians-a dance, widespread in Latin America, brought by the early missionaries is a battle between "good" and "evil". A pair of masks: rectangular faces with black full beards and hair. One has a pink face with white eyes, another with red-brown face, large under-cut eyes. crusty patina. L 19,5 in., 18 in.

239. -----a pair of masks. One, gray-green with black, ornate beard, red-brown chin. Another, large with orange predominating, black hair waves curling length of face. Beneath chin is a green animal face (Bat?). Cute pair, interesting. Old repairs to first. L.15 in., 19,75 in.

240. South America-Brazil/Colombia-Tucano Indians. A bark cloth, conical-shaped body-covering for use in mourning rites. Off-white bark-cloth painted with yellow and black geometric designs, cubist-style "face", brown tube-like arms fit into the sleeves. Raffia-fringed bottom. A scarce piece in lovely condition. L.o/a ca.54 in.

**See Collectors Guide to Masks, T Teuten, p.71/72 for text & illus.

NORTHWEST COAST

241. ..... Vancouver Island, Shimshane Tribe, c. 1830-1850, a Rocky Mountain goat carved horn spoon or ladle. A raven totem is on the handle; a lobster-like creature is on the back of the handle. The bottom of the spoon has an old india-ink inscription describing the piece which comes from the Baldwin Estate of Dorchester, Mass. Baldwin's claim to fame was his development of the Baldwin apple as revered on the east coast as the Macintoch apple is on the west coast. L: 7", minor edge chips otherwise very sharp and a most delightful and rare item from this unique culture.

A descendant of the Baldwin family recently sold this item in eastern Vermont.

242. ----Canadian Coast, Haida Tribe, c. 1920 a fine small carved wooden polychrome totem pole with a frog on the base and going upwards; a shark, a kneeling ferocious bear with three human figures seated atop the bear's head. Each man wears a cap and holds his arms around his knees. H: 11".

243. Cane, Haida, A beautifully carved dark wood cane with beaver seated on top. Inlaid abalone eyes (one missing on beaver). Ancestor figure in middle with tongue out and similar eyes. Third head also with inlaid eyes. In dark brown color with choice glossy patina. Rare and in choice condition. Metal ferrule added later is stamped "Schumann, N.Y., maker. L: 32.5 in.

PRE-COLUMBIAN ART

244. Mexico, Colima, c. 250 B.C.-250 A.D., Protoclassic Period, a large and beautiful flattened globular redware ceramic vessel of vegetable shape. Rim flared and nicely burnished. Once decorated with a diamond geometric black resist pattern (still evident if you look closely). One small area of restoration at bottom (repair to "probe hole"), otherwise choice! D: 11", H: 8".

245. Mexico, Colima, Protoclassic Period, c. 250 B.C-250 A.D., Another standing shaman figure. He wears similar pointed headdress but holds large club over left shoulder with hand. Nice glossy patina. Repairs evident on club. A desirable piece! H: 14.5".

246. Mexico, Jalisco, Protoclassic Period, c. B.C., 250-250 A. D., a top quality ceramic of a seated woman. Bare breasted (breasts scarified with black linear design). She has right hand on her belly, left hand supports large bowl which rests on her left shoulder. In dark creme slip; choice patina with cinnabar throughout. Upper lip repaired. H: 12.5".

247. Mexico, Colima, Protoclassic Period, c. 250 B.C-250 A.D., a stylized shrimp bowl. Redware bowl in squat bulbous shape. Incised grooves around midsection are supposed to represent shrimp. flared at opening. D:12, H:6,5 in.

248. Mexico, Colima, Protoclassic Period, c. 250 B.C-250 A.D., a rare and very attractive double spouted ceramic oil lamp with large dome in center. In pale brown slip; central dome with large incised "x" design on top. Two small domes at either of lamp on spouts representing huts in a village. Some restoration. Nice. L: 12.5", H: 4". (central dome).

249. Mexico, Mezcala, c. 500-1000 A.D., a speckled serpentine carving of a highly stylized standing man. Pose in rigid posture with stoic expression. H: 3.75".

250. Mexico, Mezcala, c. 500-1000 A.D., a dark green jadeite carving of a highly stylized standing figure. some age crack evident. Unusual shape and style with attractive glossy patina. On stand.. H: 4".

251. Mexico, Teotihuacan, c. 250-650 A.D., a very attractive almost translucent pale green calcite carving of a small stone head. Stoic expression with eyes and mouth made from single incised horizontal line. Inside of head fractures in the stone are evident as are different shades of pale green. On tall stand. Some chipping at both ears. Ht: 2.75, W: 2.25". Very nice!

252. Mexico, Veracruz, Huastec culture, Late Classic Period, c. 900 A.D., a stylized animal effigy bowl. Single stirrup handle in center (repaired). Bowl has stylized head and tall narrow spout for tail. Creme slip highlighted with black and red polychrome designs. H: 8", L: 9".

253. Mexico, Oaxaca, c. 1000-1500 A.D., a large stone pestle about 12" long. Cylindrically shaped and rounded at each end. Made of granite.

254. Pre-Columbian, a very unusual quartzite stone pestle. Slightly smaller than previous pestle (L: 10"), this with several incised "X" patterns and two raised bands near top.

255. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., an attractive creme slip cylinder vase. Vessel with two pairs of similar incised panels. Main pair features a seated Shaman wearing headdress and facing left, legs crossed. He extends left hand towards "tree of life", right hand is open and is held downwards. Other panels appear to depict large "poison bottles" surrounded by grid pattern. The bottom of vase is surrounded by several vertically incised deep grooves. Repaired with rim restoration. Some cracks still evident. Overall a very pleasing piece with attractive patina. Ht: 7.75". Rare!

256. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., an attractive blackware cylinder vase with incised designs. Two small and identical linear glyphs adorn the vase; inscribed on opposite sides! Glyphs are square in shape and have two lines of three "X"'s at top and bottom with serpent styled design in center. Two additional incised lines run horizontally around upper portion just above top of glyphs. Height and diameter are 6". Choice condition.

257. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., an attractive blackware cylinder vase with incised designs. Wide vase has two sets of diamond shaped incised designs on opposite sides with single horizontal incised line at top. Below and above each glyph are small horizontally incised wave-like designs. Chipped at top with repairs evident. Height and diameter are 6".

258. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., a small and attractive blackware incised tripod cylinder vase. Beautifully incised throughout. Vase has 3 pairs of similar glyphs in central section with incised semi-squares both above and below. Choice condition! Ht: 5", D: 3.75".

259. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., a small and attractive blackware incised tripod cylinder vase. Similar to above except smaller. Ht: 4.75, D: 3.5".

260. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., a small and attractive blackware incised tripod cylinder vase. Similar to above except smaller. Ht: 4.5, D: 3.5".

261. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., a small and slender cylinder vase with flared base. Orangeware with black linear design on upper-central section. Rim has three ridges, base repaired. Ht: 6", D: 3". Nice.

262. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., a cylinder vase of typical style and shape. Creme slip with orange and black polychrome throughout. Paint is worn, evidence of use. Age crack are evident! Still colorful and quite decorative. Ht: 8", D: 4".

263. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., an attractive red and orange ware bowl. Creme slip with toucan glyphs on outside painted in red and orange. Black retrograde glyphs of small birds on inside with large red cross in center of bottom. Very nice condition! Ht: 3.25", D: 7.25".

264. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., an attractive red and orange ware bowl. 3 stylized shaman figures on in red and black polychrome on outside; plain on inside. Choice condition. D: 7", H: 3.5".

265. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., an attractive red and orange ware bowl, similar to previous. Red and yellow polychrome band of glyphs on outside; plain on inside. Choice condition. D: 7.75", H: 3.25".

266. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., an attractive red and orange ware bowl. A lovely bowl with outside glyphs of 2 sets of 2 seated shamans, all facing in same direction. Inside with 2 matching glyphs. Slight rim chip. In red and creme tones. Choice condition. D: 7.5", H: 3".

267. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., another bowl similar to above. This one with three stylized bird or animal heads on outside in red and black polychrome and large red circle in center on inside with thick red horizontal band above. Some repair to rim. Nice colors! Ht: 2.5", D: 6.75".

268. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., a lot of two tall cylinder vases. Both with heavy ware! Much of original polychrome remains on each vase. Proper restoration could greatly improve pair. Both with chips, repairs and cracks. Ht: 8.75", D: 4 3/8" second vase, Ht: 8.25", D: 4.25".

269. Guatemala, Mayan, c. 500-950 A.D., a mold made creme slip stylized female figure. Bell shaped figure wears elaborate figure "8" style headdress, ear