MANGBETU

Vessel, Sundu

The Mangbetu migrated from Sudan to what is now the Congo in the 18th century. These palm wine vessels have always been among the central objects of their art. They first attracted attention in the western world towards the end of the 19th century. At the beginning of the 20th century, there was a veritable run on these objects but only around 200 are known and documented today; presumably because of their fragility. Since the turn of the millennium, top pieces have reached prices of over 20,000 euros. This object belongs to the upper mid-range, it is beautifully modeled, has a fine and at the same time strong expression and a beautiful usage patina. I estimate the age to be around 30 years before acquisition, i.e. around 1925-30.

Very good overall condition. Right ear missing, left eyelid slightly damaged. Surface and spout completely covered in matt, partly shiny patina from use.  The two leopard's teeth (they are not breasts, this figure is male) are differently colored. Presumably the lighter-colored one on the right was continuously abraded by the handling technique of a frequent user. This would also explain why this tooth was obviously broken off once and fixed in the cult. Objects of this type were often repaired, especially if they were important.

Mangbetu
DRC, 26 cm
Terracotta, encrusted patina
Early 20th century
Lore Kegel (1950s), Boris Kegel-Konietzko (1958), Dieter Blume (1961)
Leopard tooth fixed in cult, right ear damaged

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MARKET DEBUT: 1961
PRICE ON REQUEST