Reliquary - Igbo - Nigeria
05
days
07
hours
03
minutes
28
seconds
Current bid
€ 65
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 450 - € 500
 | €65 |
|---|
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 139719 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Description from the seller
This remarkable horse skull stands as a rare testimony to the ritual practices of the Igbo of southeastern Nigeria. The real skull is entirely covered by a patient wickerwork of plant fibers, whose extremely tight weaving precisely follows the anatomical contours of the animal. Geometric relief motifs, created by a play of added fibers, rhythmically ornament the surface and give the whole piece a strong symbolic dimension, while the orbits are emphasized by braided rings that accentuate the expressiveness of the piece. The ears, made with the hooves, complete this composition with a notable sobriety of form.
These skulls were traditionally hung in the men’s house or placed on altars dedicated to the ancestors, where they participated in ceremonies related to the cult of lineages and to the memory of the departed. The horse, a prestigious animal associated with power, social status, and wealth, reinforced the symbolic value of the offering. The combination of bone material and protective braiding expresses the intention to preserve the animal’s spiritual strength while integrating it into the ritual universe. The beautiful patina of use and the signs of handling attest to its antiquity and long religious use.
Plan to carry out light restoration for the right eye as well as the right hoof
Heavy mounting
EU bidders only
Seller's Story
After several impactful journeys, a tribal art enthusiast decided to share his fascination for often-overlooked works by launching an online gallery. This project aims to showcase objects from diverse origins, providing a platform to discover creations that are as rich as they are varied. The gallery offers a carefully curated selection of works ranging from masks to sculptures, and from ritual objects to everyday items. Each piece tells a story, embodying the culture and traditions of the artists, while allowing art lovers to explore the work of deserving talents from the other side of the world. More than just an art sales platform, the project fosters cultural awareness and exchange, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty and depth of tribal art.
Based in Montauban (France); visits by appointment.
Translated by Google TranslateThis remarkable horse skull stands as a rare testimony to the ritual practices of the Igbo of southeastern Nigeria. The real skull is entirely covered by a patient wickerwork of plant fibers, whose extremely tight weaving precisely follows the anatomical contours of the animal. Geometric relief motifs, created by a play of added fibers, rhythmically ornament the surface and give the whole piece a strong symbolic dimension, while the orbits are emphasized by braided rings that accentuate the expressiveness of the piece. The ears, made with the hooves, complete this composition with a notable sobriety of form.
These skulls were traditionally hung in the men’s house or placed on altars dedicated to the ancestors, where they participated in ceremonies related to the cult of lineages and to the memory of the departed. The horse, a prestigious animal associated with power, social status, and wealth, reinforced the symbolic value of the offering. The combination of bone material and protective braiding expresses the intention to preserve the animal’s spiritual strength while integrating it into the ritual universe. The beautiful patina of use and the signs of handling attest to its antiquity and long religious use.
Plan to carry out light restoration for the right eye as well as the right hoof
Heavy mounting
EU bidders only
Seller's Story
After several impactful journeys, a tribal art enthusiast decided to share his fascination for often-overlooked works by launching an online gallery. This project aims to showcase objects from diverse origins, providing a platform to discover creations that are as rich as they are varied. The gallery offers a carefully curated selection of works ranging from masks to sculptures, and from ritual objects to everyday items. Each piece tells a story, embodying the culture and traditions of the artists, while allowing art lovers to explore the work of deserving talents from the other side of the world. More than just an art sales platform, the project fosters cultural awareness and exchange, inviting visitors to appreciate the beauty and depth of tribal art.
Based in Montauban (France); visits by appointment.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1900-2000
Weight
25 kg
Material
Bone, Rattan
Country of origin
Nigeria
Ethnic group/culture
Igbo
Height
56 cm
Width
24 cm
Sold with stand
Yes
Depth
37 cm
Condition
Fair condition - heavily used & with possibly minor parts missing
Estimated period
1920-1930
Sold by
Disclaimer
Bidders need to be aware that several countries do not allow importing objects derived from endangered and other protected species, even if a certificate of origin is provided. By bidding, you confirm that you have familiarised yourself with customs laws and regulations of your own country.
Bidders need to be aware that several countries do not allow importing objects derived from endangered and other protected species, even if a certificate of origin is provided. By bidding, you confirm that you have familiarised yourself with customs laws and regulations of your own country.
