Chokwe Comb

A superb Chokwe / Lwena prestige comb from the early 20th century, whose architecture unfolds elegantly in three stages.

The seven prongs support a finely carved platform, adorned on both sides with a delicate geometric frieze. The anthropomorphic finial figure, uniquely turned at a 90-degree angle, stands out for its striking naturalism, combining great elegance with remarkable finesse in execution. The nuanced honey patina, subtly enhanced with dark pigments on the face and coiffure, grants the whole a profound visual depth.

True symbols of rank, these ornaments illustrated the high social status of their owners within the court. Through the exceptional quality of its carving and the subtlety of its details, this work stands as a rare and particularly refined example within the limited corpus of Chokwe and Lwena combs.

Date
Early 20th century.

Provenance
Former British colonial collection.
Jonathan Hope, London.
Vincenzo Casale, Brussels.

Literature
GALERIE DIDIER CLAES. Kisanola. Brussels: Galerie Didier Claes, 2019.
WASTIAU, Boris. Chokwe ("Visions of Africa" series). Milan: 5 Continents Editions, 2006.
MUSÉE DAPPER. Parures de tête / Hairstyles and Hairdresses. Paris: Éditions du Musée Dapper, 2003.

Condition
Museum quality.

Dimensions
Height: 16 cm (20 cm base included)