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Lobi Bronze Thungbubiel Pendant Serpent Motif Antique African Art Tribal Jewelry Burkina Cote d'Ivoire
A Rare Lobi Bronze Thungbubiel Pendant, Central Protective Serpent Motif Antique African Art - Traditional Tribal Jewelry - Cote d'Ivoire to Burkina Faso
Collected from the: Lobi peoples of Cote d'Ivoire, West Africa Material: Bronze, lost wax casting of copper/tin alloy, cord Period: Late 19th to early 20th century Dimensions: 6.75" height, 3" width at base; weight is 8.9 ounces or 251 grams Condition: Exceptional. No structural damage, strong signs of wear indicate age and extensive tribal use, scuffs and dings present significant patination. Held in a private Parisian collection, the condition of this piece remains unchanged from the time of its late 1940's field acquisition. Right border edge displays a divot or blow hole typical of the early lost wax process. Gorgeous deep chocolate patina displays a generous layer of pale sage to ochre material suggestive of palm or other oil base ritual libations, liberal accents of skin oil are readily apparent along the worn areas and high points, exactly where the pendant would rub the chest and hand of the wearer - a spectacular find!
Please click on the photos below to fully appreciate this important old piece!
Lobi Thungbubiel Pendants Traditions and Uses
Blandin states "Similar to one of the large ivoire pendents of which H. Labouret writes. Men of the Lobi, Birifor and Tuguessie tribes usually carry one pendent, the shape of an ivoire plate suspended on the neck, the base of which is shaped as that of the whistle for which this ornament bears the name. These brass specimens are of a rather rare model." Fisher notes that these thungbubiel pendants were worn by highly esteemed Lobi men at festivals and funerals, stating that few craftsmen made the pieces and so the reportedly carried an exorbitant price of one ox plus a large number of cowrie shells.
Lobi Tribal History
A predominately agricultural people, the approximate 250,000 Lobi people inhabit areas of Ghana, Burkina Faso, and Cote d'Ivoire. A shared cross-cultural influence may be noticed in both the art and utilitarian objects of the Lobi and the neighboring Senufo, Mossi, Bwa, and Bobo tribes. One significant cultural difference that sets the Lobi apart is that wooden masks are not worn for their ceremonial dances. The Lobi build shrines for spirits known as Thila under the direction of a tribal sorcerer. Their traditional three legged seats may occasionally be adorned with a carved animal or human figure. Lobi sculpture is extremely rich, making use of a variety of materials including: wood, clay, ivoire, and metals. Such representational objects are destined for precise social, religious and ritual uses. Statuettes known as Bateba fulfill one or several functions, depending on whether they represent a human or an animal body.
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Please contact us immediately if ~ for any reason ~ you are not pleased with your selection. We will gladly refund the purchase price of any item returned in its original condition within 14 days of dated delivery. Our commitment to 5 Star customer service and satisfaction ensures that YOUR satisfaction is Unconditionally Guaranteed ~ NO questions asked!
The buyer is responsible for return shipping costs.
We are delighted to combine shipments and reduce your costs, simply email your Zip/Postal Code PRIOR to making payment. All major credit cards and PayPal are gladly accepted. Payment is expected within 7 days of your purchase. In consideration of discounts given, we respectfully request immediate payment on all Best Offers unless arrangements are made prior to acceptance. Please contact us directly if other payment arrangements are necessary - we're always happy to help!
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