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$50.00 Shipping Location: Merrick, United States Subject: Amulet (Mohara Ody). Source: Madagascar. Estimated Age: Late 19th/Early 20th Century. No part of the contents of this page may be reproduced ... morewithout prior written permission of the author.
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Luba Ceremonial Knife with Sheath DR Congo African SALE Was $150
Title, Luba Ceremonial Knife with Sheath DR Congo African, Type of Object, Knife, Country of Origin, DR Congo, People, Luba, Materials, wood. Leather, iron, reeds, vegetal fibers, Approximate Age, mid 20th century, Dimensions, Total Knife and Sheath: 22" x 21" H. only Sheath, Overall Condition, Poor. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, oxidation on iron/ iron rusting. Damage, stains, tears in sheath, and wear in wooden ... morehandle, Additional Information: This beautiful and large knife with its own sheath made out of wood and bark comes from the Luba. The knife has a double-sided blade. The surface shows signs of long use and blade has some oxidation. Weapons from the Luba group are much rarer than those of the Kuba and other cultures. And elaborate knives of this size are much rarer than small ones. This one would have been owned by an important Luba leaders. Possibly a chief and used as an emblem of power rather than as a combat weapon. The history of the Luba can be traced back at least 500 years. And they have dominated much of southern part of the Congo during most of this time span. At the height of their expansion their empire stretched east all the way to Lake Tanganyika. Luba Society is still a large culture, numbering about 1,000,000, and their influence remains significant. While there are dozens of art-producing peoples of Congolese origin who have contributed significantly to the recognition of Central African art, the Luba, along with their closely related neighbors the Hemba, are debatable the most important of them all, with many masterpieces scattered throughout the world. The wo
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Kota Anklet Copper Bronze Currency Congo Gabon African SALE Was $150
Type of Object, Kota anklet. Country of Origin, Congo/Gabon, People, Kota or Fang, Materials, Bronze or brass, Approximate Age, 20th Century. Dimensions, 3.5 x 2.5 inches in opening; 5 inches x 4 inches ext. Overall Condition, Good. Damage/Repair, crack in one side. Minor cracks, oxidation, Additional Information: A very heavy anklet from the Kota people who live in the Gabon and the Republic of Congo(Congo-Brazaville) in the same region with the Mongo. This anklet was worn by women of high status to display their wealth. Ornaments such as this were also used as currency. Their circulation was very limited. They were used only for transaction within ritual or matrimonial compensations or transactions. They were mostly used as reservoirs of wealth. 38872* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite ... moreSellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to return an item within seven days in the same condition you received it-just let us know you're returning it. You may have either a credit or a refund for your purchase price. Not including shipping both ways. If your original payment was made through PayPal, we'll refund you through PayPal; if you paid us directly with your credit card, we'll refund the credit card. Combining Shipping: You are welcome to wait t
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Kente Handwoven Cloth Obi Nkye Obi Kwa Mu Si African SALE Was $150
Title, Kente Handwoven Cloth Obi Nkye Obi Kwa Mu Si African, Type of Object, Handwoven cloth, Country of Origin, Ghana, People, Asante, Materials, Hand woven cloth. Possibly combination cotton and silk, Approximate Age, Mid 20th Century, Dimensions, 43 inches by 72 inches, Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, Some torn seams. Slightly frayed, uneven edges, We do not recommend laundering textiles. And do not accept returns ... moreof textiles which have been laundered in any manner. Even dry cleaning is too much for some of these antique textiles. For some of them, a very gentle HAND washing(NEVER MACHINE, on any setting) in cool water with a very gentle detergent works, but even then, dyes may not be colorfast, and fabric may be less strong than it appears. Additional Information: A ceremonial classic Kente cloth wore by Asante women. Strips are hand sewn together. Estimated age more than 40 years. Kente cloth is the royal cloth of the Ashante. Of Ghana. In many cases, the thread was obtained by carefully un-picking silk garments, and reweaving them. The looms have two or three heddles. Legend says that the Kente cloth weavers learned their skill from watching a spider, Anansi, who is a significant figure in African folklore. The pattern on this textile is known as Obi Nkye Obi Kwa Mu si which is translated into" sooner or later one could stray into another person's path" which means"nobody is perfect and everybody makes mistakes. If some one happens to get in your way or does something to offend you. It is important to be understanding and to forgive that person" The blue is the
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Mossi Carved Doll Biiga Burkina Faso African Figure SALE Was $150
Type of Object, Doll- Female figure, Country of Origin, Burkina Faso, People, Mossi or Moshi, Materials, Wood and pigment, Approximate Age, 20th century, Dimensions, Height is 10.5 inches, Overall Condition, Poor: Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, cracks in head. Neck, and torso, scratches, Mossi Carved Doll. Biiga,Burkina Faso, African Figure Additional Information: A classic Mossi half female figure called biiga doll with incisions throughout. ... moreThe Mossi are today the largest single group living in Burkina Faso. They originated from horsemen who made their way north from present day Ghana during the 1500âs. Mossi are renowned for their masquerades and the use of large superbly sculpted and brightly painted masks and colorful costumes. Among the Mossi elders are highly honored with elaborate funerals and the appearance of masked dancers with masks representing ancestors and various spirits and forces of Nature in dramatic and often vigorous dances. Sculpted figures known as Ninande(pl. have a number of functions and It is difficult to establish the use of a figure without specific knowledge of itâs use. This stylized sculpted female figure has and unusual Mossi facial and body lines and a ringed neck. The high crested hairstyle is a version of gyonfo coiffure worn by the female among the Mossi. In general. Figures are identified with local chiefs and clan elders during ceremonies reinforcing local political relationships and chiefly authority. Figures are also used at funerals and in some areas are buried with the elder. During yearly public ceremonies figures honoring ancestors will have cloths wrapped
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Pende Beaded Bottle with Stopper DR Congo African SALE Was $150
Title, Pende Beaded Bottle with Stopper DR Congo, Type of Object, Container, Country of Origin, DR Congo, People, Pende, Materials, glass bottle. Bead, wood for stopper, Approximate Age, contemporary, Dimensions, 10.75 inches H. Overall Condition, good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners. Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, loose strands. Missing a few beads in places. Additional Information: A glass bottle decorated with glass beads of various colors. The traditional use of this bottle is not known. This ... morebottle with stopper could simply have been as a decorative piece. The beadwork on this bottle recall the chief's beaded crowns produced by the Pende. 64397* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to return an item within seven days in the same condition you received it-just let us know you're returning it. You may have either a credit or a refund for your purchase price,
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Tutsi pipe, Calabash and ClayRwanda Burundi African SALE Was $150
Type of Object, pipe, Country of Origin, Rwanda. Burundi, People, Tutsi, Materials, Gourd. Clay, string, Dimensions, Height is 14 inches, Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Tutsi pipe Calabash and clay. Tutsi, OLD D amage. Repair: worn patina. Stain Additional Information: An interesting and light weight old pipe made of calabash.The bowl is made from clay and attached to the calabash by some local glued material. The calabash ring is ... morenicely decorated with string. The bowl is simple and and without any decoration. Pipes such as this were found not only among the Tutsi but are widely spread in Central. Eastern and Southern Africa. They fall in the category of personal objects and get special care from the owners for they are part of their everyday life. Such pipes are utilized for smoking tobacco. For closely related pieces see Ginzberg. Marc, AFRICAN FORMS, p.122. 36703* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. A
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Zulu Beaded Anklet Old South African Beadwork SALE Was $150
Title, Zulu Beaded Anklet Old South African Beadwork, Strand Length, 4 x 8.5 inches, Old Zulu Beadwork. First half of 20th century. Probably a dance anklet. 8" x 4" Zulu beadwork has a long history as beads were traded first by Arabs and later Europeans in exchange for ivory. Animal products and slaves. Beads were valued as currency as well as decoration. Disingwayo the uncle of Shaka and Shaka himself, controlled the bead trade and monopolized not only the beads but also the colors and designs available to groups within Shakaâs control. Beadwork became a status symbol and important item of personal expression. Stylistic variations of beadwork such as pattern, color and color sequence indicate area or group affiliation although some variations occur contemporary beadwork based on fashion and political meaning. Colors and ... morepatterns could take on more personally expressive meanings as well in the case of Zulu âlove letters.â Color and pattern then express symbolically, ideas of personal attachment and affection. Recently beadwork has become a symbol of political identity as well with color and pattern indicating political affiliation. Instead of beads being worn only by the conservative, traditional members of the community, wearing beadwork is increasingly being seen as reclaiming a cultural identity. 25893* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily e
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Baule Headrest Ivory Coast African SALE Was $150
Title, Baule Headrest Ivory Coast African, Type of Object, Headrest, Country of Origin, Cote d'Ivoire(Ivory Coast, People, Baule, Materials, Wood. Pigment, Approximate Age, mid 20th century, Dimensions, 8.75 inches x 5.25 inches Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, cracks and chips in places, Additional Information: The surface on this rare Baule headrest shows sign of extensive use. The quality of the wood used and ... morethe texture indicate the piece is old. Headrests such as this were commonly found at royal courts and in ordinary people houses. They were property of a elders who used them to support their head. When a clan elder died he would be honored by having its stools and headrests placed in ancestor shrine to honor the deceased. See a similar example in William J. Dewey. Sleeping Beauties. The Jerome L. Joss Collection of African Headrests at UCLA. fig. 84. 70688* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out
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Bamana Figural Door Lock Mali African SALE Was $150
Title, Bamana Figural Door Lock Mali African, Type of Object, Door Lock, Country of Origin, Mali, People, Bamana, Materials, Wood. Iron, pigment, Approximate Age, Mid 20th century, Dimensions, 18.25 inches x 16 inches, Overall Condition, poor. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, cracks. Chips, scrapes, scratches and wear in places, some oxidation on metal, Bamana Figural Door Lock. Mali, African. Additional Information: A wooden door lock attributed ... moreto the Bamana. This example has some age and the surface shows it was extensively used. Bamana door locks are composed of two parts: one is a fixed vertical element which is most often carved with abstract. Human or animal form fixed to the door with iron staples. The second part of the door lock is a horizontal wooden piece that slides through the vertical piece where iron teeth would fall into small holes locking the door. The doors had pointed corners that served as hinges and a sculpted wooden lock to keep it closed. A small key would lift the iron pegs to open the door. The sliding locking bar passed just behind the vertical part. The face on this door lock is carved in a Bamana style and recalls Bamana figures identified as representations of an ancestor, which presence is required to ensure protection and prevent the intrusion of bad spirits and sorcerers. For similar examples and further information see LEGENDS. SORCERESS AND ENCHANTED LIZARDS-DOOR LOCKS OF THE BAMANA OF MALI; see also BAMANA THE ART OF EXISTENCE IN MALI, By Colleyn J.P.e.d. 70915* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has b
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Baule Spoon with Female Figure, Elephant Head African sale wAS $150
Type of Object, Artifact. Spoon, Country of Origin, Cote d'Ivoire, People, Baule, Materials, Wood, Approximate Age, second half 20th century, Dimensions, 15 inches H. Overall Condition, Good, Damage/Repair, worn patina. Cracks in head, neck, and in bowl Additional Information: Made from wood this spoon has a nice handle showing a carved female figure standing on elephant ears and elephant head. The images carved on the handles are drawn from the Baule mask and figure repertory. They represent important spirits of nature and those of the ancestors. Among the Baule ceremonial spoons like this come in various forms and the handles are simple or elaborate with carved animal or human heads or figures. Or simply decorated with geometric motifs. Simple spoons are used for cooking, stirring, and eating. Elaborate and figural spoons such as this ... moreare best described as feast ladles used by their owner to offer food during public feasts or special ceremonies. In certain parts of Africa, spoons like this are considered prestige objects used by initiate members. They are carved from prestigious material such as ivory as is the case for the Lega people of the DR Congo. Among the Dan for instance, spoons can be a central piece of important ceremonies and an award to women who had been judged by their peers and elders of their village to be the most generous and hospitable to others of their village quarter. Spoon shaped carvings such as this are best described as feast ladles used by their owner to offer food to others during public feasts. Recommended Reading: P. L. Ravenhill: Baule Statuary Art: Meaning and Modernization. Institute for the Study of Human Issues, Working Paper 5(Philadelphia, 1980) S. M. Vogel: Beauty in the Eyes of the Baule: Aesthetics and Cultural Values, Institute for the Study of Human Issues, Working Paper 6(Philadelphia,1980) S. M. Vogel, Baule, African Art, Western Eyes. 1997. 70699* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direc
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Kuba Chief Hat with Cowry Shells DR Congo African SALE WAS $150
Title, Kuba Chief Hat with Cowry Shells Beads Leather DR Congo African Type of Object, Hat, Country of Origin, DR Congo, People, Kuba, Materials, Raffia fibers. Cowry shells, beads, cotton cloth, Approximate Age, second half 20th century, Dimensions, 10 inches W. x 3.25 inches H. Overall Condition, Fair. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, Extensively worn. Cracks in leather, missing cowry shells and beads, Additional Information: An interesting ... morepiece of handwoven raffia hat. With a frame made of raffia fibre and covered with a cotton cloth. Outside, the top is decorated with animal skin. On the sides decoration include panels of cowry shells, alternate with panel of beadsand nother panel with the inscription in beads: CHEF DITALALA(which van be translated by Chief Ditalala in English) The composition of the cowrie shells a beads follows the(Ba)Kuba favored style of decorative art. The form of this cap is unusual and recall a type of European military hats(see Arnoldi& Kreamer eds. Crowning Achievements, fig. 9.19) Kuba hats are worn by the Kings and his dignitaries as a part of a daily attire and also as ceremonial hats. Beaded hats are part of dignitaries regalia that indiate their status and social rank. They also intend to demonstrate royal health and power. Within Kuba culture. Cowrie shells and beads are associated to the wealth and power of the kingship. such caps display royal wealth and prestige. For more information see Joseph. Cornet, Art Royal Kuba, 1982, Edizioni Sipiel: Milano; Mack's EMIL TORDAY AND THE ART OF THE CONGO 1900-1909. Patricia Darish and David Binkley. Headdresses and titleholding Am
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Blacksmith Tongs Iron Forged African SALE Was $150
Title, Blacksmith Tongs Iron Forged Africa, Type of Object, Tongs, Country of Origin, West or Central Africa. Unknown, People, Unspecified group, Materials, Iron, Approximate Age, Unknown, Dimensions, 24 inches H. Overall Condition, Poor. Most ofour pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners. Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, Rusted surface, Additional Information: An old forged iron tongs! Its origin is not known.This is a tool used by a blacksmith in ironworking. Such implements are today rare to find. This one is probably ... morefrom the earlier or mid 20th century. 56968* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to return an item within seven days in the same condition you received it-just let us know you're returning it. You may have either a credit or a refund for your purchase price. Not including shipping both ways. If your original payment was made through PayPal, we'll refund you through
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Yaka Diviner's Slit Gong DR Congo African SALE Was $150
Title, Yaka Diviner's Slit Gong. Nkookwa Ngombo, African, Type of Object, Carving, Country of Origin, DR Congo, People, Yaka, Materials, Wood, Approximate Age, second half 20th century, Dimensions, 13 inches H. Overall Condition, Fair to good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, cracks. Hips, Additional Information: The Yaka diviner has a position of power within the community. The slit gong is used by the diviner during rites of initiation. ... moreThey are then used by him when he is posessed spirits and is performing divination rituals. See a photograph of a Yaka diviner during a ritual in The Metropolitan Museum of Art's"ART AND ORACLE. by LaGamma. Each diviner has his own slit gong, which incorporates the spirit of the master diviner who was his mentor. It is the clairvoyance of this ancestor that will direct the novice in his or her own practice, and the slit will serve as the mouth of the oracle's voice when the slitdrum is struck. La Gamma, op cit) Yaka people number approximately 300.000 and live along the Kwango River in the SW Democratic Republic of the Congo. Their neighbors are the Pende. They have a highly developed artistic sense-and they instill beauty and drama in even mundane objects. They are best known for the upturned noses found on initiation masks and diviner's fetishes, but their art can be abstract and vague as well. They sometimes create statues of considerable proportions. Though these normally are used by diviners and healers and are used in various ways and for multiple purposes.There are many wonderful Yaka artworks pictured in scholarly texts and their masks and figures grace
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Yoruba Diviner Beaded Bag Ifa Nigeria African SALE Was $150
Title, Yoruba Beaded Diviner Bag Apo Ileke Ifa Nigeria African, Type of Object, artifact. Beadwork, Country of Origin, Nigeria, People, Yoruba, Materials, Glass Beads. Cotton cloth, cardboard, Approximate Age, mid 20th century, Dimensions, 33 inches x 13 inches, Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, one strand cut. Missing beads, dirt on cotton cloth, Yoruba Beaded Diviner Bag Apo Ileke Ifa Nigeria. African Additional Information: ... moreA yoruba bag embellished with glass beads with a design of a human face in the ceter. Among the Yoruba. Beadwork is the province of the Ifa diviner, something akin to a priest. Worn by Babalawo(diviners) beaded bags such as this are known as Apo Ileke Ifa and would hold the diviner's chains or cowrie shells that would be tossed onto the ground and interpreted by the diviner. Yoruba diviners have been seen dancing with beaded bags like this during the annual Ifa festivals. Ifa divination plays and important role in the lives of the Yoruba determine their actions or explaining misfortunes. Colors and designs play significant symbolic roles among the Yoruba people of Nigeria. Yellow and green beads are associated with Ifa. Black and white beads with Eshu, red and white beads are also for Orisha Shango. The blue is associated to the royalties. The cowrie shells were used as a form of currency in the past. They have ritual significance in the Ifa divination. For excellent examples of Yoruba beadwork. See Fagg's YORUBA BEADWORK and BEADS BODY AND SOUL; ART AND LIGHT IN THE YORUBA UNIVERSE by Drewal and Mason. 74852* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Di
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Pende Beaded Sceptre or Wand DR Congo African SALE Was $150
Type of Object, Beadwork. Scepter Country of Origin, DR Congo, People, Pende, Materials, Wood. Beads, string, Approximate Age, 20th century Dimensions, 15.5 inches H. Overall Condition, Good, Damage/Repair, cut strands with a few missing beads at top and in other places, Pende Beaded Sceptre or Wand. DR Congo, African. Additional Information: Beaded scepter from the Western Pende people. Democratic Republic of Congo. Chiefs will use this special scepter during ceremonies while performing their ritual duties. Scepters are said to embody powerful spirits that protect the owner. The Pende are known for their artistic forms ranging from house decorations. Figural sculptures, staffs, scepters, numerous carved ivory pendants and a wide variety of masks. Masks from the Western Pende are numerous and dance during Mukanda initiations and circumcisions ... moreof young boys to represent the perseverance that the boys must demonstrate during this initiation. Beads are mainly used to decorate chiefâs hats and scepters like this one. These prestige objects were used by the political leaders and are worn or carried as emblem of authority, badges of office and insignia of rank. 69165* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to ret
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Makenge Large Wedding Basket Zambia African 17 In. SALE Was $150
Type of Object, Basket, Country of Origin, Zambia. Kalabo district, Western Province, People, Mbunda, Materials, Vegetal fibers. Reeds, Approximate Age, 20th century, Dimensions, 17 inches Diam, Overall Condition, good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, old insect damage arrested. Slightly damaged at reeds, Makenge Large Wedding Basket Zambia Africa Additional Information: an used reed basket produced is Zambia and known under the name of Makenge ... moreMaselo. This rigid basket is made by the Mbundu women. Who fled Angola for Zimbabwe, and continued to make their traditional rigid baskets from the root of the makenge plant, which is found along the Zambezi river as well as in their traditional homes in Angola. They are traditionally given as a wedding gift, and are used and repaired, sometimes for generations. This large flat basket was used in kitchen preparations. Residues of what it was used for is still present on the basket. This basket was made to serve fruits, seeds, and other dry foodstuffs or for other kitchen activities. For more information on these baskets. See Marjorie Locke's THE DOVE'S FOOTPRINTS-BASKETRY PATTERNS IN MATABELELAND. 65279* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have rai
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Xhosa Beaded Shawl South African SALE Was $150
Type of Object, Apron. Scarf or shawl, Country of Origin, South Africa People, Xhosa, Materials, Cotton. Beads Approximate Age, 1960's, Dimensions, 46.5 W. x 16.25 inches H. Overall Condition, fair to good, Damage/Repair, loose strands with a few missing beads in places. Dust on textile, Xhosa Beaded Apron. Scarf or Shawl South Africa Additional Information: A triangular cotton cloth in blue. Decorated with great arrangement of machine sewn works and beads onto it. In no other part of sub-Saharan Africa have artists produced a more highly diversified assortment of artistic beadwork than in the southern region. All the major ethnic groups of South Africa have a very long tradition of beadworks. They show a high degree of professionalism in decorative art using beads as the central medium. The traditional function of these beads ... morein the Xhosa culture goes back to 1900. Since that time they are among the main decorative elements that embellish costume. Aprons like this, bags, hats, and so forth. They continue to be seen on contemporary prestigious Objects and testify to the great pride their makers took in decorating ceremonial and everyday objects. 65465* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to retu
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Luba Figural Scepter Carved Wood African SALE WaS $150
Title, Luba Figural Scepter Carved Wood African, Type of Object, Staff. Scepter, carving, Country of Origin, Democratic Republic of Congo, People, Luba, Materials, Wood. Approximate Age, Second Half 20th century, Dimensions, 10 inches H. Overall Condition, good, Damage/Repair, chips. Broken and missing cowrie shells, old insect damage arrested, Additional Information: Sculpted staffs of office embellished with a sculpted figure or head such as this serve not only to indicate a chiefâs or titleholderâs rank and social status but equally serve as abstract devices to indicate their lineage history. Genealogy, the history of the chief and their ancestors and serves as a residence of spirits. The designs and figures can be read by the chief and the spiritual medium that blesses the staff and loads it with magical and ritual properties. ... moreThe magical powers and prayers embedded into the staff can cure and protect those whom the chief administers. These staffs were held by royals and office holders and thus were not common. They were kept in secret and closely guarded by the owner. Recommended Reading: Nooter. M. N. and A. F. Roberts. 1996. Memory, Luba Art and the Making of History. 76822* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase
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Yoruba Beaded Crown Nigeria African SALE Was $150
Title, Yoruba Beaded Crown Adenla Red Blue White Yellow Nigeria African, Type of Object, Crown. Hat, Country of Origin, Nigeria, People, Yoruba, Materials, Glass beads. Aso Oke cloth, vegetal materials or other? Approximate Age, Late 20th century or Contemporary, Dimensions, 18. inches H. x 8.5 inches Diam. Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, wear on cotton cloth. Traces of glue in places, cut strands with a few missing ... morebeads Additional Information: The right to wear crowns is limited to approximately fifty Yoruba kings. Theoretically. Only direct descendents of one of the sixteen children of the god ORISHA, first king of the Yoruba people, can wear them. ORISHA blessed mankind with the use of beads, and their use is restricted to those whose spiritual powers enable them to move across the boundary that separates men from gods, the secular from the sacred. The crown itself is worshiped. It is placed upon the king's head from behind, usually by he senior wife, because he may not look upon the bird which goes on the top, which holds powerful medicines to protect him and his destiny. The veil is to keep viewers from seeing the king's face, masking his individuality, and also focusing attention on the real focus of power, the crown. The birds on the side symbolize the fact that the king rules"only with the support of the mothers. Crowns limited to those who could trace their heritage to Odudua, first king of Yoruba(at Ife) Crowns are called orisha(diety) and is the object of care and veneration by a woman at court. The veil focuses the viewer's attention to the crown and to v
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Nupe Textile White Pink Nigeria African SALE Was $150
Title, Nupe Cotton Cloth with Rayon White Pink Nigeria African, Type of Object, Textile. Table cloth, Country of Origin, Nigeria, People, Nupe, Materials, Cotton. Rayon, Approximate Age, 20th century, Dimensions, 69 inches W. x 41.5 inches H. Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, stains.  uneven, worn, Additional Information: A beautifully handmade textile decorated with rayon and embroidered motifs in green. ... moreThis textile comes probably from the Nupe people from Nigeria. Besides a few stains this textile would make a good tablecloth or a wall hanging textile! Additional Information: The designs on one side of this cotton cloth are embroidered from cotton threads alternating with sewn.The designs include traditional diamond motifs close to the designs known as Ikaki. Tortoise patterns, and the columns of wild cotton threads and rayon pulled up from the surface to form another kind of design. Similar raised designs are seen on cloths produced by Ijebu-Ode, called Itagbe worn by leaders of the Ogboni society. More intricate and dimensional versions of these cloths are produced for the Yoruba elite. Such textiles were also found among the Nupe as well as among the Igbo living in and around the town of Ijebu-Ode. In fact, in the 19th century, trade began with Igbo weavers from the town of Akwete, who produced copies using similar motifs. Textiles in southern Nigeria continue in an ongoing process of traditional weaving in old methods with new materials. These cloths were made by and for both men and women. Weaving centers have been identified throughout Nigeria. Each of the centers reflect
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Xhosa Beaded Belt Pink South African Beadwork SALE Was $150
Title, Xhosa Beaded Belt Pink South African Beadwork, Type of Object, Beadwork. Waist Belt or headband, Country of Origin, South Africa People, Xhosa, Materials, Bead. String, leather, Approximate Age, 1970s, Dimensions, 28 inches L.x 2.5 inches W.   Overall Condition, poor, Damage/Repair, loose and cut strands with. Holes and a few missing and broken beads, missing buttons, Additional Information: On this belt/headband. Xhosa style is recognized by the use of pink beads. The traditional function of the beads in this culture goes behind the simple fact that they embellish the objects. In early times, beads were used as currencies and as valuable items for exchange and compensation. In Xhosa villages, today, beadworks continue to be seen as prestigious Objects. Xhosa beadworks testify to the great pride their makers ... moretook in producing objects of quality. Recommended Reading: EZAKWANTU. Beadework from the Eastern Cape. 31 October 1993-29 May 1994. South African National Gallery*61287* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to return an item within seven days in the same condition you received it-just let us know you're returning it. You may have either a credit or a refund for your purchas
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Kuba Textile Appliquéd DR Congo African SALE Was $150
Title, Kuba Textile Appliquéd Matisse Style DR Congo African, Type of Object, Textile. Ceremonial skirt, Country of Origin, DR Congo, People, Kuba, Materials, Raffia. Dyes, Approximate Age, Contemporary, Dimensions, 180 inches x 21 inches, Overall Condition, Good Damage/Repair, General wear, We do not recommend laundering textiles. And do not accept returns of textiles which have been laundered in any manner. Even dry cleaning is too much for some of these antique textiles. For some of them, a very gentle HAND washing(NEVER MACHINE, on any setting) in cool water with a very gentle detergent works, but even then, dyes may not be colorfast, and fabric may be less strong than it appears. Additional Information: A wonderful Kuba Textile with Appliqued designs/Matisse Style! The following are excerpts from Kuba Textiles and Design by ... moreElizabeth S. Bennett and Niangi Batulukisi. Ph.D. In sub-Saharan Africa. Where representative art has flourished for centuries, carvers and crafts people have typically taken for their subjects human figures, animals, plants, and elements of the natural world. Abstract art, meanwhile, has remained marginal. The textiles of the BaKuba(Kuba) people of the Democratic Republic of Congo are an exception. Although part of a tradition that stretches back 400 years, Kuba textiles have a strikingly modern look. They use improvised systems of signs, lines, colors, and textures, often in the form of complex geometric rectilinear patterns. Their appliqués are reminiscent of works by 19th- and 20th-century masters like Matisse, Picasso, Klee, Penck, and Chellida. This is no coincidence: all of those artists were inspired by Kuba design! Appliqué is the most popular weaving technique among the Kuba. To create an appliqué. Kuba artists use a stencil to cut decorative designs out of a brightly colored cloth, and then sew or apply the designs onto a cloth of a different color. The designs are then placed on top of yet another cloth. Through this process, the art
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Yoruba Bronze Bracelet Twisted Nigeria Heavy African SALE Was $150
Title, Yoruba Bronze Bracelet Twisted Nigeria Heavy African Type of Object, Jewelry. Metalwork, currency, Country of Origin, Nigeria, People, Yoruba, Materials, Bronze, Approximate Age, unknown, Dimensions, 4.75 inches diameter, Overall Condition, Good, Damage/Repair, wear and someoxidation A Yoruba Bronze Bracelet Twisted Heavy. Also used as currency. Additional Information: To see other examples of Ethnic jewelry from around the world please see A WORLD OF NECKLACES(Leurquin) AFRICA ADORNED(Fisher) JEWELS FROM ELSEWHERE(Maggi,Melesi, Pensotti) and ETHNIC JEWELRY(van der Star Collection) and THE SPLENDOR of ETHNIC JEWELRY(Borel) 74889* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. ... moreIt is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to return an item within seven days in the same condition you received it-just let us know you're returning it. You may have either a credit or a refund for your purchase price. Not including shipping both ways. If your original payment was made through PayPal, we'll refund you through PayPal; if you paid us directly with your credit card, we'll refund the credit card. Combining Shipping: You are welcome to wait to pay. And to combine multiple items for shipping. We ask that you keep each order to ten days or ten items, whichever
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Kuba Beaded Belt Cowrie Shells DR Congo African SALE Was $150
Type of Object, Beaded belt, Country of Origin, DR Congo, People, Kuba, Materials, beads. Cowrie shells, raffia textile, Approximate Age, 20th century, Dimensions, 64 inches L. x 4 inches W. Overall Condition, Fair to good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, Loose strands of beads. Holes, rips, tears. missing beads and cowrie shells, Kuba Beaded Belt with Cowrie Shells DR Congo African Additional Information: This belt. Made of handwoven raffia ... moredecorated with glass beads and cowrie shells embroidered and sewn onto it, was used to hold upon the voluminous raffia skirts worn by nobles and kings in the Kuba Kingdom in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The prominent display of cowries in the royal costume emphasizes the ruler as by far the wealthiest person in the kingdom, so wealthy that he purportedly ate pulverized cowries as part of his diet. A king's raiment weighed as much as 185 pounds! The 130 titled individuals at court also had their own costume forms. Recommended Reading: Cornet's ART ROYAL KUBA. Mack's EMIL TORDAY AND THE ART OF THE CONGO 1900-1909. 62670* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our
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Dan Ceremonial Spoon Wunkirile Liberia African 21 inch SALE Was $150
Title, Dan Figural Ceremonial Spoon Wunkirile Liberia African, Type of Object, artifact. Household, Country of Origin, Liberia. Cote d'Ivoire, People, Dan, Materials, Wood. Pigment, nails, vegetal fibers, Approximate Age, Second half twentieth century, Dimensions, 20.75 inches x 5.25 inches Overall Condition, Good, Damage/Repair, crack with repair in one foot. Chips in places, Additional Information: An example of a utilitarian piece taken to the level of art. This is a well-carved spoon with a worn patina. The handle in the form of a female body demonstrates the creativity of the Dan people where this spoon comes from. The Dan are an enormous culture. Spread out over several countries. They continue to produce exemplary art objects even today, from the smallest brass castings to huge hornbill statues standing six feet or more. The Dan ... moreare perhaps the most documented of all West African groups, and information and examples of their many art forms can be found in almost all books on West African art. Spoons in the shape of female figures were awarded to women known as wunkirile who had been judged by their peers and elders of their village to be the most generous and hospitable to others of their village quarter. Spoon shaped carvings such as this are best described as feast ladles used by their owner to offer food to others during public feasts. Known as'wunkirmian' this spoon shaped figure incorporates body markings identifying their owner as a woman of the Dan people. The hairstyle and facial markings portray a woman at the height of her beauty and maturity. The personification of positive attributes of women among the Dan people. I have examined this piece and agree with the description. Niangi Batulukisi. PhD. 82694* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year
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Tutsi Pipe Calabash OLD Rwanda Burundi African SALE Was $150
Title, Tutsi Pipe Calabash and Clay OLD Rwanda Burundi African Type of Object, pipe, Country of Origin, Rwanda. Burundi, People, Tutsi, Materials, Gourd. Clay, string, Dimensions, Height is 14 inches, Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, worn patina. Stain, Tutsi pipe Calabash and clay. Tutsi, OLD Additional Information: An interesting and light weight old pipe made of calabash.The bowl is made from clay and attached to ... morethe calabash by some local glued material. The calabash ring is nicely decorated with string. The bowl is simple and and without any decoration. Pipes such as this were found not only among the Tutsi but are widely spread in Central. Eastern and Southern Africa. They fall in the category of personal objects and get special care from the owners for they are part of their everyday life. Such pipes are utilized for smoking tobacco. For closely related pieces see Ginzberg. Marc, AFRICAN FORMS, p.122. 36703* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily e
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Kente Handwoven Cloth Pink Asante Ghana African SALE WAS $150
Title, Kente Handwoven Cloth Pink Asante Ghana African, Type of Object, Handwoven Cloth, Country of Origin, Ghana, People, Asante, Materials, Handwoven Cloth. Silk, cotton, or combination, Approximate Age, Mid 20th Century, Dimensions, 78 inches x 27 Inches Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, general wear, Kente Handwoven Cloth Asante Ghana African Additional Information: Kente cloth is the royal cloth of the Asante. ... moreOf Ghana. In many cases, the thread was obtained by carefully un-picking silk garments, and reweaving them. The looms have two or three heddles. Legend says that the Kente cloth weavers learned their skill from watching a spider, Anansi, who is a significant figure in African folklore. This textile exhibits different types of weft patterns. Each pattern has it own name and a proverb associated to it. The patterns on this textile have the traditional bright colors including orange, green, red, blue, and black. Recommended Reading: See Clarke's"ART OF AFRICAN TEXTILES" The best source for pictures and information on Kente textiles is Adler and Barbard's"AFRICAN MAJESTY. the"TEXTILE ART OF THE ASHANTI AND EWE. 71548* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works
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Yoruba Pair of Twin Figures Ibeji Nigeria African SALE WAS $150
Title, Yoruba Pair of Twin Figures Ibeji Nigeria African, Type of Object, Figures. Pair, Country of Origin, Nigeria, People, Yoruba, Materials, Wood. Pigment, Approximate Age, second half 20th century, Dimensions, 11 inches H. x 4 inches W. each, Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, cracks in head. Shoulder, and base, Additional Information: The Yoruba of Nigeria and of the Benin Republic are known for having an extraordinarily ... morehigh rate of multiple births. The rate of twin births is one of the highest in the world. 45 of every 1,000 births(in the United States it is 28.9 of every 1000) There is also a high mortality rate; half of the twins die shortly after birth. In earlier times, new-born twins, or ibeji, as they are called, were believed to be evil, monstrous abnormalities and infanticide was a common practice. However, such beliefs and practices were later superseded and reversed, and by the middle of the 18th century twins came to be seen as a blessing; they were awarded the status of minor deities, called Orishas, and their arrival was viewed as an omen of good fortune for the family. By the 19th century the cult of the Ere Ibeji was firmly established and continues to this day. The death of one or both twins is regarded as a great calamity for the family, one which requires immediate appeasement of the soul of the deceased child. Though the cause of the high rate of twin births among Yoruba women has not been established. The cultural grieving process is well documented and may be observed in the carving of a figure known as Ere Ibeji, which both represents the lost child and serve
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Xhosa Beaded Band Anklet or Armlet South African SALE WAS $150
Title, Xhosa Beaded Band Anklet or Armlet South African, Type of Object, Beadwork. Anklet, Armlet or Headband or child waist belt, Country of Origin, South Africa People, Xhosa, Materials, Bead. String, Approximate Age, Mid 20th Century, Dimensions, 15 inches L. x 2 inches W.   Overall Condition, Good. Damage/Repair, Loose and cut cotton thread strings, Additional Information: A wonderful Xhosa beaded band that could have been used as a armlet or a anklet or a headband. This beadwork comes from the Xhosa speaking people of the Eastern Cape region of South Africa. On this work. Xhosa style is recognized by the use of navy blue beads and mother of pearl buttons. The traditional function of the beads in this culture goes behind the simple fact that they embellish the objects. In early times, beads were used as currencies ... moreand as valuable items for exchange and compensation. In Xhosa villages, today, beadworks continue to be seen as prestigious Objects. Xhosa beadworks testify to the great pride their makers took in producing objects of quality. Recommended Reading: EZAKWANTU. Beadework from the Eastern Cape. 31 October 1993-29 May 1994. South African National Gallery*70227* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase.
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Ewe Handwoven Textile Keta Togo African SALE WAS $150
Type of Object, Textile, Country of Origin, Ghana. Togo, People, Ewe, Materials, Cotton, Approximate Age, mid 20th century, Dimensions, 43 X 58 inches, Overall Condition, Fair to good. Damage/Repair, worn. Holes, Ewe Handwoven Textile Keta African Additional Information: An old Ewe Keta women' s Cloth The Ewe people. Who live in Ghana and Togo, have textiles similar to the kente of their neighboring Ashante, but they are woven of cotton, and are generally more muted. They are called"Keta" because they were originally produced in a coastal town of that name. See AFRICAN TEXTILES by Christopher Spring, and AFRICAN MAJESTY-THE TEXTILE ART OF THE ASHANTE AND EWE, by Adler and Barnard. 63213* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on ... moreeBay since 1997 and has received more than 30,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $30,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to return an item within seven days in the same condition you received it-just let us know you're returning it. You may have either a credit or a refund for your purchase price. Not including shipping both ways. If your original payment was made through PayPal, we'll refund you through PayPal; if you paid us directly with your credit card, we'll refund the credit card. Combining Shipping: You are welcome to wait to pay. And to combine multiple items for shipping. We
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Maasai Beaded Cape, Kenya, Leather, Beads, African SALE WAS $150.00
Title, Maasai Beaded Cape. Kenya, Leather, Beads, African, Materials, Uncured hide. Glass beads, cowrie shells, ochre, Made In, Kenya or Tanzania Approximate Age, 20th century, Dimensions, 39 by 46 inches, Overall Condition, Good, Damage/Repair, General wear.Repair in two places, tears in skin, stain, Type of Object, Skirt. Cape, garment, We do not recommend laundering textiles. And do not accept returns of textiles which have been laundered in any manner. Even dry cleaning is too much for some of these antique textiles. For some of them, a very gentle HAND washing(NEVER MACHINE, on any setting) in cool water with a very gentle detergent works, but even then, dyes may not be colorfast, and fabric may be less strong than it appears. Additional Information: A magnificently beaded piece. Olekesana is a woman skirt or cap from the Maasai. It ... moreis made of goatskin or sheepskin decorated with beads on the surface. some of them may have a particular design for a specific category of wearer. The skirt is embellished with ochre Such skirts were as garments and part of married women dress. Such capes would be worn by women from the day they would get married until their death. These capes/skirts can still be seen worn y women during important ceremonies. For more information and pictures. See Saitoti's MAASAI, which has examples and a photograph of a woman sewing beads on one, on p. 216. See a similar piece in Marie-Louise Labelle. BEADS OF LIFE, fig. 66, p.86. I have examined this piece and agree with the description. Niangi Batulukisi. PhD. 73996* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 45,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more
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Ife Bronze Head of Oni Yoruba Nigeria African SALE WAS $150.00
Title, Ife Bronze Head of Oni Yoruba Nigeria African Type of Object, Casting Head, Country of Origin, Nigeria, People, Yoruba at Ife, Materials, Brass- Bronze, Approximate Age, Unknown Dimensions, 11.25 inches H. x 5.25 inches W. x 6.5 deep, Overall Condition, Poor. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, some oxidation. Broken crown decoration, damage with large crack in the back of head, crack at the edge of crown, cracks and holes in neck, holes ... morein places, Additional Information: This casting head of King Oni is a fine example of one of the most famous metalworking traditions in world history. The present head is a 20th Century copy modeled after the great Yoruba center at Ife dating originally approximately 1100-1450 A.D. The famous archaeological site at Ife in Nigeria produced a number of remarkable objects and bronze heads cast in bronze including the original of this late replica that was also cast in Nigeria. Ife is considered to be the center and origin of the Yoruba people. This bronze cast head is of an Oni. The ruler at Ife, who still hold sway over the Yoruba at Ife today. That this is a replica cannot be doubted, but what is important to note is that the skill of the Nigerian bronze and brass casters of today who cast this vessel continue a tradition nearly 1000 years old and have not lost their skill in producing interesting works of art. The scarification is thought to be an indicator of royals at Ife and the large device protruding from the top of the crown was thought to be made of magical plants. see close similar examples in: Nigeria Art. The Meneghelli Collection fig. B110-B111. See more information a
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Kente Cloth Handwoven Textile Red and Green Asante African SALE WAS $150.00
Title, Kente cloth Handwoven Textile Red Asante Ghana Africa, Type of Object, Textile, Country of Origin, Ghana, People, Ashante(Asante) or Ewe, Materials, cotton. Silk-some combination, Approximate Age, Mid 20th Century, Dimensions, 43 inches x 57.5 inches, Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, general wear, We do not recommend laundering textiles. And do not accept returns of textiles which have been laundered in any manner. ... moreEven dry cleaning is too much for some of these antique textiles. For some of them, a very gentle HAND washing(NEVER MACHINE, on any setting) in cool water with a very gentle detergent works, but even then, dyes may not be colorfast, and fabric may be less strong than it appears. Additional Information: A superb Kente Textile with a green background and decorated with complex patterns typical of the Kente cloth. Kente cloth is the royal cloth of the Ashante(Asante) of Ghana. They are worn by both men and woman. men' cloth are larger than these worn by women. Legend says that the Kente cloth weavers learned their skill from watching a spider. Anansi, who is a significant figure in African folklore. In many cases, the thread was obtained by carefully um-picking silk garments, and reweaving them. The looms have two or three heddles. See Clarke's ART OF AFRICAN TEXTILES) Kente cloths are prestigious textiles worn during important ceremonies. They are prized for their colors and weft designs. They are identified by their patterns and the combination of patterns. The names given to the designs derive from the proverbs and popular sayings, nature(plants for instance) histo
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Kente Cloth Handwoven Textile Asante Ghana African SALE WAS $150.00
Title, Kente Handwoven Cloth Asante Ghana African, Type of Object, Handwoven cloth, Country of Origin, Ghana, People, Asante, Materials, Hand woven cloth. Possibly silk, Approximate Age, Mid 20th Century, Dimensions, 39 inches by 70 inches, Overall Condition, Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, Some torn seams. Slightly frayed, cut edges, Kente Handwoven Cloth Obi Nkye Obi Kwa Mu Si African We do not recommend laundering textiles. And do ... morenot accept returns of textiles which have been laundered in any manner. Even dry cleaning is too much for some of these antique textiles. For some of them, a very gentle HAND washing(NEVER MACHINE, on any setting) in cool water with a very gentle detergent works, but even then, dyes may not be colorfast, and fabric may be less strong than it appears. Additional Information: A ceremonial classic Kente cloth wore by Asante women. Strips are hand sewn together. Estimated age more than 40 years. Kente cloth is the royal cloth of the Ashante. Of Ghana. In many cases, the thread was obtained by carefully un-picking silk garments, and reweaving them. The looms have two or three heddles. Legend says that the Kente cloth weavers learned their skill from watching a spider, Anansi, who is a significant figure in African folklore. The pattern on this textile is known as Obi Nkye Obi Kwa Mu si which is translated into" sooner or later one could stray into another person's path" which means"nobody is perfect and everybody makes mistakes. If some one happens to get in your way or does something to offend you. It is important to be understanding and to forgive that person"
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Yoruba Ere Ibeji Twin Figure Nigeria African SALE WAS $150.00
Title, Yoruba Ere Ibeji Twin Figure Nigeria African, Type of Object, Carved sculpture, Country of Origin, Nigeria People, Yoruba, Materials, Wood. Beads, raffia, Approximate Age, second half 20th century, Dimensions, 8.5 inches H. x 3 inches W. Overall Condition, good Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, stains. Holes, Yoruba Ere Ibeji Twin Figure. Nigeria, African Additional Information: A female Ibeji twin figure from the Yoruba! The Yoruba ... moreof Nigeria and of the Benin Republic are known for having an extraordinarily high rate of multiple births. The rate of twin births is one of the highest in the world. 45 of every 1,000 births(in the United States it is 28.9 of every 1000) There is also a high mortality rate; half of the twins die shortly after birth. In earlier times. New-born twins, or ibeji, as they are called, were believed to be evil, monstrous abnormalities and infanticide was a common practice. However, such beliefs and practices were later superseded and reversed, and by the middle of the 18th century twins came to be seen as a blessing; they were awarded the status of minor deities, called Orishas, and their arrival was viewed as an omen of good fortune for the family. By the 19th century the cult of the Ere Ibeji was firmly established and continues to this day. The death of one or both twins is regarded as a great calamity for the family, one which requires immediate appeasement of the soul of the deceased child. Though the cause of the high rate of twin births among Yoruba women has not been established. The cultural grieving process is well documented and may be observed in the carving of a figure
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Dogon Forged Iron Snake Old Ceremonial Staff African SALE WAS $150.00
Title, Dogon Forged Iron Snake Old Ceremonial Staff African, Type of Object, Metalwork. Country of Origin, Mali. People, Dogon. Materials, Iron, Approximate Age, Mid 20th century, Dimensions, 60.5 inches long, Overall Condition, Good, Damage/Repair, Rusted surface Additional Information: This forged iron snake was made by the Dogon blacksmiths for use as a ceremonial staff. This snake does have the coiled and twisted forms usually seein in the snake sculpture. Its shape suggests the idea of a representation of a snake. Snake made in iron like this are used as accessories for priests of the Lebe as protection and to honor the Nommo mythological beings who was turned into the snake Lebe. This example was used as a staff. Some Dogon assert that the snakes on doors represent their ancestors because of the fact that they shed their skin each year ... moreand are thus'reborn' Also their representation on doors and the long'squiggly' lines along the sides of some Dogon masks make reference to the idea of water/river. See the curved lines surrounding early Dogon stools. 85208* All content. Including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc. 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Africa Direct. Inc. has been selling on eBay since 1997 and has received more than 45,000 positive feedbacks. It is owned by Eliza and Sara, who began the company after spending a year wandering southern Africa in a camper van with their multi-racial family. They have been honored with eBay's Hall of Fame award, and by eBay Giving Works, through which they have raised more than $100,000 in charity auctions. Customer Service: We treasure our many long term customers. And will try to make you one of them! If you have problems, please tell us. we care! Handling Time: We ship daily except Sundays and holidays. Most orders go out the same day. And all go out within 48 hours. Returns: We want you to be happy with your purchase. You're welcome to return an item within seven days in the same condition you received it-just let us know you'
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Mossi Carved Doll Biiga Burkina Faso African 13.5 inch SALE WAS $150.00
Title, Mossi Doll Biiga Wood Burkina Faso African, Type of Object, Doll- Female figure, Country of Origin, Burkina Faso, People, Mossi or Moshi, Materials, Wood Approximate Age, second half 20th century, Dimensions, 13.25 inches H. x 1.5 inches W. Overall Condition, good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents. And have been treasured by several owners.  Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use. We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings. Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage. Damage/Repair, Worn patina, Additional Information: A Mossi doll in the form of a female figure wth a long slim torso with breasts and marking. The Mossi ... moreidentify such dolls as biiga or fertility doll. The Mossi are today the largest single group living in Burkina Faso. Sculpted figures known as Ninande(pl. have a number of functions and It is difficult to establish the use of a figure without specific knowledge of itâs use. In general. Figures are identified with local chiefs and clan elders during ceremonies reinforcing local political relationships and chiefly authority. Among their many works is the âbiigaâ or doll; though the word doll is not a good translation of the because the function of the sculpture goes way beyond that of a âplaything.â For a young female child the biiga represents the power that will enable her to have a child and simultaneously the baby she is learning to take care for. Biiga doll is washed and dressed and carried on the back just like a real child would be. If it is damaged. The biiga is taken to the local diviner for attention. The biiga is passed on from mother to daughter or from sister to sister. All Mossi dolls have a cylindrical base that is slightly wider than the body. It is carved without legs or arms but has accentuated breasts which are a symbol of mothe
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