Congo/Gabon/W African dance axe?

Tim Simmons · 4th January 2008, 05:41 PM

Thanks Freddy, I think that you and David are closer to the mark. I have now ruled out West Africa on the grounds that all the status objects in my collection from the trade coast are in terms of pure construction far more sophisticated in that the artisans have a more broad palette of influences.
This piece is clearly a special item but it is of simple construction which reflects a more isolated region. To me much of the artist value is carried in the handle and its carving. The blade, although beautiful, is secondary. In my opinion it is really made to be seen held like a baton hence the swelling in the centre of the handle so a display of more carving is possible. I will show pictures of views that at the moment we have just to guess at.

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4th January 2008, 05:41 PM	#8
Tim Simmons Member Join Date: Dec 2004 Location: What is still UK Posts: 5,843	Thanks Freddy, I think that you and David are closer to the mark. I have now ruled out West Africa on the grounds that all the status objects in my collection from the trade coast are in terms of pure construction far more sophisticated in that the artisans have a more broad palette of influences. This piece is clearly a special item but it is of simple construction which reflects a more isolated region. To me much of the artist value is carried in the handle and its carving. The blade, although beautiful, is secondary. In my opinion it is really made to be seen held like a baton hence the swelling in the centre of the handle so a display of more carving is possible. I will show pictures of views that at the moment we have just to guess at.