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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
African Weapons : Tiv Brass Ceremonial Adze
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Tiv Brass Ceremonial Adze - PF.4259
Origin: Eastern Nigeria
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
18.5" (47.0cm) high
x 12" (30.5cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Brass
$9,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The Tiv inhabit both sides of the Benue river near
the Cameroon mountains. There sculptures are
relatively rare, but those that do exist reveal an
economy of form and line that approaches
abstraction. The Tiv blacksmiths produce
excellent works, including axes such as this
handsome example. It is composed of a blade
extending from the “mouth” of the head
ornament, and gently curves downwards. The
shaft has an upper and lower textured area done
in a delicate leaf pattern. The head is highly
abstract, but bears certain resemblances to an
owl, which is associated by the Tiv with occult
powers. Ceremonial axes should be considered
as sculptures not so much as actual weapons;
and are regarded as symbols of rank and dignity.
- (PF.4259)
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