Exclusive Africain Tribal Art Collection of 2 Statues and 6 Masks 19-20 Century

MASTERPIECES OF AFRICAN TRIBAL ART
An Exceptional Collection from a Distinguished Swiss Private Collection

24Time is privileged to present an exceptional collection of African tribal art comprising six antique ceremonial masks and two important sculptures of museum quality, assembled over decades by a distinguished Swiss private collector renowned for his discerning eye and appreciation of authentic African masterpieces.

This remarkable ensemble brings together some of the most iconic artistic traditions of the African continent, uniting exceptional sculptural works and ceremonial masks distinguished by their rarity, authenticity, artistic power and remarkable provenance.

Among the highlights of the collection is an important Lobi standing figure from Burkina Faso, a powerful guardian sculpture displaying a magnificent dark patina acquired through age and ritual use. Revered within Lobi spiritual traditions as protective intermediaries between the human and spiritual worlds, such figures are today highly sought after by collectors and institutions alike.

Equally important is a remarkable Bembe ancestral figure from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Characterised by its expressive facial features, elegant proportions and exceptional sculptural presence, the work embodies the ancestral traditions and spiritual heritage of Central Africa. Its remarkable patina and artistic refinement place it among the finest examples of Bembe sculpture.

The collection is further enriched by an outstanding Punu mask from Gabon dating from the late nineteenth to early twentieth century. Recognised worldwide as one of the most celebrated forms of African tribal art, Punu masks are admired for their extraordinary elegance, serene facial expression and refined aesthetic balance. The present example displays the characteristic beauty that has made Punu masks highly prized among collectors and museums, with its harmonious features, sophisticated coiffure and remarkable sculptural quality. Such masks were traditionally used during ceremonial performances honouring ancestors and transmitting spiritual values within the community.

The remaining ceremonial masks included in this collection further illustrate the extraordinary diversity of African artistic expression. Created for initiations, ritual ceremonies, ancestral worship and social celebrations, these masks represent centuries of tradition, craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism. Their aged surfaces and authentic wear attest to their ceremonial use and historical significance.

The provenance of this collection is particularly distinguished. Preserved within a noble Swiss private collection and acquired through reputable channels over many years, each work reflects a careful process of selection focused on quality, authenticity and artistic merit. Such provenance considerably enhances the historical importance and desirability of the ensemble.

Today, authentic collections of this calibre have become increasingly difficult to assemble. As museums and collectors continue to recognise the enduring significance of African tribal art, works of this quality and provenance have become exceptionally sought after on the international market.

This extraordinary collection offers more than a gathering of rare objects; it represents a journey through the artistic genius, spiritual traditions and cultural heritage of Africa. Together, these masterpieces form a coherent and prestigious ensemble worthy of the finest private collections and institutions.

Provenance:
Distinguished Swiss Private Collection.

Exclusively offered by 24Time.

A rare opportunity to acquire an exceptional ensemble of authentic African masterpieces.

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