Lega, Democratic Republic of Congo: A ceremonial hat, with the beak of a hornbill.
An old ceremonial hat of a high level member of the ‘Bwami’ society of the Lega (also called Rega or Warega), in eastern Congo. The hat consists of tight wickerwork made of plant fibres. Attached to its top is an impressive beak of a calao bird (hornbill or rhinoceros). The conical hat, which points upwards, is densely decorated with the scales of an armadillo, as well as with four vertical rows of seashells. The chinstrap is covered by a row of cowrie shells. Remains of an original red colouring made of redwood powder. A rare and beautiful example of a ritual hat of the Lega. With very old usage patina (see inside!). In excellent condition. No damage. First third of the 20th century or earlier. H: 28 cm (hat without chinstrap). (ME)
Lit.: ‘L’art des Lega’, Katalog Musée du Quai Branly, Paris, ill. 59, 60
Specialist: Erwin Melchardt
Erwin Melchardt
+43-1-515 60-465
erwin.melchardt@dorotheum.at
05.11.2014 - 13:00
- Estimate:
-
EUR 800.- to EUR 1,200.-
Lega, Democratic Republic of Congo: A ceremonial hat, with the beak of a hornbill.
An old ceremonial hat of a high level member of the ‘Bwami’ society of the Lega (also called Rega or Warega), in eastern Congo. The hat consists of tight wickerwork made of plant fibres. Attached to its top is an impressive beak of a calao bird (hornbill or rhinoceros). The conical hat, which points upwards, is densely decorated with the scales of an armadillo, as well as with four vertical rows of seashells. The chinstrap is covered by a row of cowrie shells. Remains of an original red colouring made of redwood powder. A rare and beautiful example of a ritual hat of the Lega. With very old usage patina (see inside!). In excellent condition. No damage. First third of the 20th century or earlier. H: 28 cm (hat without chinstrap). (ME)
Lit.: ‘L’art des Lega’, Katalog Musée du Quai Branly, Paris, ill. 59, 60
Specialist: Erwin Melchardt
Erwin Melchardt
+43-1-515 60-465
erwin.melchardt@dorotheum.at
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| Auction: | Tribal Art |
| Auction type: | Saleroom auction |
| Date: | 05.11.2014 - 13:00 |
| Location: | Vienna | Palais Dorotheum |
| Exhibition: | 31.10. - 05.11.2014 |