The Many Faces of Tribal Art in One Collection

Let’s go on an adventure to explore this newly curated collection of Tribal Art. Carved out in this collection of tribal art are masks and figures integral to traditional African ceremonies. Imbued with stylized detail and tremendous depth of meaning, handcrafted African, Native American and Pre-Columbian pieces enchant collectors worldwide.

Among the cross-continental highlights are a large Songye cat mask from the Congo, which may have been used for hunting rituals, and a Baule mother and a child carved group from the Ivory Coast. The antique piece represents the fine carving skill frequently seen in Baule art.

LEFT: Antique Songye cat mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo. Estimate: $5,000-$7,000
RIGHT: Finely carved Baule mother and child, Ivory Coast. Estimate $8,000-$9,000. Jasper52 images

A traditional Nimba figure by the Baga people of Guinea is said to symbolize ideas of beauty, comportment, righteousness, dignity, and social duty. Nimba figures like this inspired the paintings of Pablo Picasso.

Traditional Nimba figure, Baga, Guinea. Wood with metal details. Estimate $14,000-$15,000. Jasper52 image

Moving to the Western Hemisphere, a highlight in this collection is a beautiful black-on-black pottery bowl by Maria Martinez from the peak of her career. Maria Martinez (1887-1980) was a Native American artist internationally known for her pottery work, and created pieces to reflect the Pueblo people’s legacy of fine artwork and crafts.

Signed Maria Martinez black-on-black pottery bowl, 1943-54. Estimate: $900-$1,000. Jasper52 image

Navajo woven items are also highlighted in this 119-lot collection, starting with a transitional rug, circa 1890.

Transitional Navajo rug, circa 1890, 60in x 84in. Estimate $4,000-$6,000. Jasper52 image

Another large Navajo rug in this eclectic collection dates to around 1910.

Navajo rug, circa 1910, 82in x 55in. Estimate $3,000-$4,000. Jasper52 image

Given their geometric volumes, it is no wonder that African, Native American and Pre-Columbian artifacts are widely exhibited alongside modern sculptures.

View the full collection of Tribal Art presented by Jasper52 here.