A RARE LEGA IVORY FIGURE, sakimatwematwe, the three faces with incised concentric circle eyes, creamy patina; and another ivory figure, of stocky form, the triangular-shaped face with incised concentric circle eyes, dark reddish-brown patina

细节

A RARE LEGA IVORY FIGURE, sakimatwematwe, the three faces with incised concentric circle eyes, creamy patina; and another ivory figure, of stocky form, the triangular-shaped face with incised concentric circle eyes, dark reddish-brown patina
12.5cm. and 13.5cm. high (2)

拍品专文

Biebuyck (1973, pp.179,220,221) relates that multifaced figures may be carved of wood, bone or ivory, and owned individually or held initiation baskets. It is generally known as "Mr. Many-Heads" or he who "has seen an elephant on the other side of the large river". This aphorism is brought to bear as the wisdom fairness and omniscience of the initiate. But the figurine may also mean that one should not contradict a member of the kindi grade, or talk behind his back