Lot 125: A superb Yoruba offering bowl by Obembe Alaye (d. 1939)

People: Yoruba, Ekiti region; Efon-Alaye
Nigeria
H: 11 ½"
This superb example carved in characteristic style of the hand of Oberon Alaye, chief Ologunde of Efon-Alaye and famous carver who died in 1939, depicts a kneeling female figure with rounded features, large eyes, sensual lips, and elaborate scarification; holding a chicken, similarly carved with repeating geometric motifs in the form of a lidded bowl. The fine old surface heavily encrusted with indigo infill. A finely carved and exceptionally rare example by one of the few known and recognized Yoruba carvers of the classical period. On a custom base.

Provenance:
Leonard Kahan Gallery, NY; A Private Virginia Collector

Price Realized: $7,000

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