FR EN
1 / 7
an image of a bronze sculpture of a bird on a wooden basean image of a bronze sculpture of a bird on a wooden basebronze sculpture of a bird on a wooden base on a white backgrounda bronze sculpture of a bird on a wooden basean image of a bronze sculpture of a person with a knifea close up of a sculpture of a bird on a wooden basea bronze sculpture of a bird on a pedestal
Premium ROUILLAC

232 - Kota, Gabon, early 20th century
See original version (French)

Estimate €4,000 - €6,000
Sale commission
Description
Kota, Gabon, early 20th century Mbulu ngulu reliquary figure Wood, brass, copper. A highly stylised wooden core is clad in sheets of brass, which are stapled in place and decorated with geometric motifs created using the repoussé technique. Height 50.5, Width 58.5 cm. On plinth: Total height 59 cm. Provenance: acquired from Mr Alain Chesne, Archaïa Gallery, Lyon; private collection, Tours. This sculpture is distinguished by the power of its geometry and the simplification of its forms, which transform the human figure into an abstract construction, free from any attempt at naturalistic imitation. This quest for artistic autonomy echoes certain Western artistic movements of the early 20th century, characterised by a desire to move beyond the representation of reality in order to explore the expressive power of forms. The work thus prompts a reflection—one that remains relevant today—on the relationship between figuration and abstraction, symbolic function and plastic power, cultural heritage and artistic modernity.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale ARTS+DESIGN #10
Auction location
Auction time 11/08/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
You may also like