Large hollow copper-alloy bracelet – Kobre type – Mossi attribution – Burkina Faso (No reserve price)
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
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Large hollow copper-alloy Kobre-type bracelet, attributed to the Mossi in Burkina Faso, dating to the mid-20th century and collected in situ by the current owner in the early 1990s.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Large hollow copper-alloy bracelet – Kobre type – Mossi attribution – Burkina Faso
Origin: Burkina Faso (attributed)
People: Mossi (attributed)
Type: Kobre-type bracelet / prestige ornament
Material: Cast copper alloy
Dimensions: Approx. 11 × 10.5 cm
Weight: 193 g
Period: Probably mid-20th century
Provenance: Collected in situ by the present owner in the early 1990s
A beautifully decorated copper-alloy bracelet from West Africa, attributed to the Mossi cultural area of Burkina Faso and closely related to the type known as Kobre.
Bracelets of this family belong to the rich metalworking traditions of Burkina Faso, where copper-alloy ornaments could serve as personal adornments, expressions of prestige and, in certain contexts, forms of stored wealth or exchange.
This example is particularly remarkable for the refinement and density of its decoration.
The broad, almost circular body is hollowed on the inside, giving the bracelet an impressive sculptural volume while keeping its weight relatively moderate.
Its outer surface is covered with elaborate geometric designs, combining incised triangles, chevrons, cross-hatching and finely textured fields. These motifs are arranged in successive registers, creating a complex yet remarkably balanced composition.
Especially attractive is the raised decoration bordering the inner circumference. Its closely interwoven pattern strongly evokes traditional basketry, suggesting the translation of a woven structure into cast metal.
The contrast between the finely engraved surfaces and the more pronounced relief decoration gives the bracelet exceptional visual richness.
The copper alloy displays a beautiful old patina, combining deep brown tones, darkened recesses and warm golden highlights on the raised details. Subtle traces of green oxidation further enrich its surface.
A particularly appealing example of West African metalwork, combining technical refinement, sophisticated ornamentation and strong sculptural presence.
Condition
Good overall condition, with surface wear, rubbing, oxidation, small casting irregularities and minor marks consistent with age and use.
Beautiful old patina, with dark and golden-brown tones and occasional traces of green oxidation.
Please refer carefully to the photographs.
Included
The bracelet only.
The photographic support is not included.
Seller's Story
For more than 30 years, I have collected African art with a focus on authenticity, symbolism, and refined craftsmanship.
Graduated as an engineer from École Centrale de Paris, I combine the rigor of my technical background with a lifelong passion for artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Founder of AS’ART (dedicated to contemporary handmade design) and Artifacts Gallery (devoted to ancient tribal art and ethnographic objects), I bring together two worlds: the vitality of today’s artisans and the timeless heritage of Africa’s past.
Every piece I present is chosen for its artistic quality, cultural significance, and emotional power.
Large hollow copper-alloy bracelet – Kobre type – Mossi attribution – Burkina Faso
Origin: Burkina Faso (attributed)
People: Mossi (attributed)
Type: Kobre-type bracelet / prestige ornament
Material: Cast copper alloy
Dimensions: Approx. 11 × 10.5 cm
Weight: 193 g
Period: Probably mid-20th century
Provenance: Collected in situ by the present owner in the early 1990s
A beautifully decorated copper-alloy bracelet from West Africa, attributed to the Mossi cultural area of Burkina Faso and closely related to the type known as Kobre.
Bracelets of this family belong to the rich metalworking traditions of Burkina Faso, where copper-alloy ornaments could serve as personal adornments, expressions of prestige and, in certain contexts, forms of stored wealth or exchange.
This example is particularly remarkable for the refinement and density of its decoration.
The broad, almost circular body is hollowed on the inside, giving the bracelet an impressive sculptural volume while keeping its weight relatively moderate.
Its outer surface is covered with elaborate geometric designs, combining incised triangles, chevrons, cross-hatching and finely textured fields. These motifs are arranged in successive registers, creating a complex yet remarkably balanced composition.
Especially attractive is the raised decoration bordering the inner circumference. Its closely interwoven pattern strongly evokes traditional basketry, suggesting the translation of a woven structure into cast metal.
The contrast between the finely engraved surfaces and the more pronounced relief decoration gives the bracelet exceptional visual richness.
The copper alloy displays a beautiful old patina, combining deep brown tones, darkened recesses and warm golden highlights on the raised details. Subtle traces of green oxidation further enrich its surface.
A particularly appealing example of West African metalwork, combining technical refinement, sophisticated ornamentation and strong sculptural presence.
Condition
Good overall condition, with surface wear, rubbing, oxidation, small casting irregularities and minor marks consistent with age and use.
Beautiful old patina, with dark and golden-brown tones and occasional traces of green oxidation.
Please refer carefully to the photographs.
Included
The bracelet only.
The photographic support is not included.
Seller's Story
For more than 30 years, I have collected African art with a focus on authenticity, symbolism, and refined craftsmanship.
Graduated as an engineer from École Centrale de Paris, I combine the rigor of my technical background with a lifelong passion for artistic expression and cultural heritage.
Founder of AS’ART (dedicated to contemporary handmade design) and Artifacts Gallery (devoted to ancient tribal art and ethnographic objects), I bring together two worlds: the vitality of today’s artisans and the timeless heritage of Africa’s past.
Every piece I present is chosen for its artistic quality, cultural significance, and emotional power.
Details
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Large hollow copper-alloy bracelet – Kobre type – Mossi attribution – Burkina Faso
Authenticity
Original/official
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