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Antique vases including a 16"T blown glass vase with hand painted gold overlay; a 15" T cast metal vase with a female figurine, fish & water design, dented on one side

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Gold and silver jewelry including a 14K gold (stamped) stick pin weighing 2 grams and misc silver jewelry most pieces marked sterling or 925, some with turquoise an amber stones. Combined weight of silver pieces is 95 grams. Shipping is available for this item.

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Costume jewelry including watches earrings, brooches, necklaces, bracelets, etc. Shipping is available for this item.

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Fine porcelain items including 4 Haviland Limoges demitasse cups and saucers, (once saucer chipped); Belleek sea shell design bowl, cup & saucer; 4 pieces of Lenox porcelain; Wedgwood Jasperware cups, saucers and two small vases; two English bone china cups and saucers including Queen Anne & Duchess.

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Antique Italian male and female porcelain figurines 6.25" tall (male figurine repaired); pair of carved wooden monk bookends 8" tall, (one damaged); heavy resin horse figurine 7"Tx8"L; marble horsehead bookends; brass book bookends; reproduction Beethoven bust 7" tall; 2 carved wooden African figurines 15"T and 12"T; carved horn African bird figurine 10"T; 4"T Italian terracotta figurine of man & woman knitting; 7"T porcelain music box, man listening to Victrola.

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Silver and crystal items including a pair of Gorham sterling silver candle sticks with weighted bases 3.5"T; pair of Candle-Wick International Sterling double handled cups with weighted bases, both 3.25" T; cut glass decanter 8"T; cut glass vase 8"T; pair of glass candelabras with prism decorations 11"T; cobalt glass & silver plate salt & pepper shakers 3.5"T; vintage stag handled carving set labeled Wade & Butcher, Sheffield with sterling silver mounts; etc.

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Vintage dark mink coat purchased in the 1980's, size large; older blond mink stole. Both furs are in good condition.

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4 wooden bookcases plus stereo system. Bookcases include large pine cabinet; 75"Tx36"Wx17"D includes a flip down writing surface plus under cabinet storage; 3 smaller bookcases, largest 51.25"T x 24.25"Wx13"D. Stereo components include Pioneer multi- channel receiver Model VSX-D458; Magnavox CDB650 CD player: Pioneer cassette player; 2 IMF Compact 220 speakers. Furniture items all have finish blemishes. Buyer must remove all. Other items appearing in backgrounds of photos are not included.

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Furniture including elaborately carved teak Chinese stand, 23.5"Tx22"W, (has water damage and cracked top); vintage upholstered arm chair with mahogany frame, tufted back, 35"T; Mission style wood and brass coat rack 69"T (missing one coat hook); Asian porcelain umbrella stand, 24"T with umbrellas and canes; mahogany bookcase/side table 24"T. Other items appearing in backgrounds of photos are not included.

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2 vintage oil on canvas paintings of Venice scenes including a painting signed Pilini of the Bridge of Sighs 27.5"Tx19.5"W; a painting of gondoliers signed Orestes Raineri 28"Tx36"W. Light fixtures appearing in photos are not included.

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Taxidermy barracuda 47"L (has damage); a framed vintage photo of Venice; a painting on board of roses singed by J.L.Raffaeli; other framed prints and paintings.

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Glass, porcelain, pottery, etc. items featuring Capodimonte flowers (some chipped); Asian sandalwood art; Japanese and Italian teacups/saucers; glass paperweights; etc. Buyer must remove all.

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Collectible items, music boxes, trinket boxes; figurines, cameras, wooden bowls, souvenirs; etc. Buyer must remove all.

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Vintage Remington typewriter; vintage sewing supplies; figurines; camping lanterns; food warmers; carving knives; etc. Buyer must remove all.

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Early 20th century Jacobian style oak dining room furniture including table 30"Tx60"Wx38"D with 12"W pull out end extensions; 6 chairs (1 arm, 5 side) loose); buffet 37"Tx65"Wx22"D; server 34"Tx38"Wx20"D. Table has sun fading and stains. Other pieces have finish blemished. Arm chair joints are loose. Contents of server are not included.

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4 oriental and oriental style area rugs, sizes 6'5"x3'10"; 3'9"X2'; 4'4"X2'8"; 8'X2'2". Some are stained. All need cleaning.

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3 oriental area rugs including 5'7"x4'; a runner 10'x2'6"; a silk rug 24"x36".

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Holiday items and decorations; religious items; lamps; bookcase; fan; etc. Winning bidder must remove all. Fireplace appearing in background of photos is not included. The white goose neck floor lamp appearing in some of the photos has been removed from this auction.  

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La Z Boy brand powered recliner and lift chair in good working condition. (1st of 2). Heavy item. Bring assistance for safe removal from main level of home.

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7 area rugs, some with oriental patterns, various sizes and materials, some stains noted. All need cleaning.

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La Z Boy brand powered recliner and lift chair in good working condition. (2nd of 2) Heavy item. Bring assistance for safe removal from main level of home.

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Super Karman oriental pattern rug, 100% wool pile, 11'x8'3". Has a 4"x4" worn area. Needs cleaning.

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10'x14' center medallion oriental rug with heavy pile. Needs cleaning.

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SERPENTINE CEREMONIAL WEAPON. Tusyan/Toussian/Tusia people, Burkina Faso and Ivory Coast. Facing an insurrection by the Tusyan people, the French colonial administration banned their possession of weapons. As a form of resistance, the native Snake Society adopted this S-shaped bayonet form that could be carried on one’s shoulder. On custom base. Iron. H31in. Exhibited at the Pen and Brush Gallery New York 2003.

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METAL PARRY SHIELD. Tamberma/Batammaliba people, Togo and Benin. In close quarter battle, this shield was used to fend off poles, knifes, and swords. Unusual example with hook. Handle is wrapped with cloth and rope. On custom base. H26in.

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BLACKSMITH’S STOOL. Bozo people, Mali. In contrast to most African stools made from wood, terra cotta stools like this were used by Bozo blacksmiths because they were fire resistant. Before beginning his work, the blacksmith performed ritual ablutions over the stool which was placed in a bowl to catch the water. See picture of a similar stool in a blacksmith’s workshop in the Bozo village, Tongarogo, along the Niger River in Mali in 2003. Terra cotta. H9.25in W12in

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TRADITIONAL WEST AFRICAN BLACKSMITH’S TOOLS. The presence of iron in West Africa predates the first arrival of Europeans in the fifteenth century. The process of smelting in which ore from the earth is brought together with fire and air was imbued with mythical qualities associated with fertility, conception, and birth. Iron ore was likened to blood of the earth which during smelting was transformed into a symbolic fetus, the bloom containing iron, that was born from a metaphorical womb, the furnace, from which the slag or placenta was delivered. In some communities, blacksmiths smelted iron ore, but more often smithing and smelting were done by different families. Each was a sacred activity exclusive to men requiring secret rituals that were passed along with the smith’s tools to apprentices who were often male members of the smith’s family. All tools on custom bases. (A) Old hand-forged anvil H8in W8lb. (B) Tongs. Senegal. H11in. (C) Spike-shaped anvil. Cameroon. H10in. (D) Spike-shaped anvil. Ivory Coast H8.5in. (E) Tongs. Burkina Faso. H13.5in. (F) Awl with wooden handle. Guinea. Red hot awls were used to burn holes in wood, leather and thin sheets of metal. H16in. See picture showing tools in a blacksmith’s work shop in Tongarogo village, Mali, in 2003. The blacksmith is sitting on a terra cotta stool (see Lot # 3) that is covered by his blue robe. The man in the white outfit is his apprentice. Note the anvil next to the blacksmith’s left foot (see pictures). All exhibited at the Pen and Brush Gallery New York 2003.

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WEDDING BLANKET. Tuareg people, Niger and Mali. Used for warmth and protection against mosquitoes. The Tuareg are nomadic people who roam the southern Sahara. Within the past decade this region has become a no-mans-land because of Islamic terrorism. This blanket was collected in 2005 before the region became inaccessible, a situation that makes it virtually impossible to obtain these textiles today. Made from ten, 6-inch wide hand-woven, hand sewn strips that are decorated with dots, tufts, squares, and hourglass shapes. Cotton. 60in x 140in.

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RARE ARON ARABAI FACE MASK. Temne people, Sierra Leone. This “mask of chieftaincy” is worn by a man who represents the Chief when he is not present. According to W.A. Hart, a noted student of Sierra Leone art (see attached 1986 article) “No chieftaincy mask, so far as I can discover, is in any museum collection in Europe or the United States”. The hammered copper plate was attached to a leather and fiber helmet. The serrated border at the top of this round mask suggests a relationship to the sun. Circles with diamond-shaped symbols, possibly representing amulets, have been embossed around the circumference of the face. Old Sierra Leone 20 cent coins mostly dated 1964 have been hung with sturdy cord around the entire perimeter. Sierra Leone gained its independence from Great Britain in April 1961. Copper plate. Diameter across ears 14in.

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ASAFO MILITIA FLAG AND SUPI’S WHIP. Fante people, Ghana. (A) This flag depicts a spider representing the Asafohene or leader of a Number One Asafo Company. It was probably created to honor an Asafohene thought to have great wisdom as expressed in the proverb, “The spider was on the stool before God created the earth”. Two figures pointing to the stool are Company Captains (Supi) who are identified by the three-tailed whips hanging from a wrist. Supi have many important responsibilities in an Asafo Company, including keeping order among the members, a role that is symbolized by the whip. African spiders are believed to have wisdom because they live in holes in the ground where they are in contact with ancestors. This flag is entirely hand sewn with embroidered details and a Union Jack canton. Cotton. 37in x 56.5in. Exhibited at the Free Library Gallery Philadelphia 2011, the SMA Fathers Museum of African Art Tenafly NJ 2013 and the Memphis University Museum Memphis TN 2014. Published in “Emblems of Power. Asafo Flags from Ghana” p85 Fig 86. This book is only available from the authors at ppr2001@med.cornell.edu. (B) Asafo Supi’s three-tailed whip. As depicted in the flag (A) there is a thick segment just below the wrist loop that contains “medicine” which enhances the Supi’s authority. Braided leather. 34in. Published in “Emblems of Power. Asafo Flags from Ghana” p29 Fig 5. See photograph taken in 2012 in the Fante village of Goma Asebu. The man on the right is the Asafo Supi with a whip suspended from his right wrist. The red cloth around his neck is a symbol of mourning for the late President of Ghana who died the previous day.

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HEAD CREST MASKS (2). Temne people, Sierra Leone. Worn on top of the head by members during Jolly (pronounced Jollay) Society masquerade processions. The masker was hidden beneath a voluminous costume hanging from the scaffold on which the mask was attached. (A) This mask is a female bust that has been decorated with silver paint and large red and blue dots. Wood, paint. H18in. (B) Janus female bust with faces front and back painted crimson wearing a gold-tone bead necklace. She is crowned by a smaller female head and abundant hair consisting of wool yarn. H21in. Both published in “Masks from West and Central Africa” (A) p64-65 Fig78 (B) p69 Fig85.

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PRE-COIN HERALDIC HOE-FORM CURRENCY. Afo people, Nigeria. For centuries before the introduction of coins by European colonial administrations, Africans used a variety of natural objects like cowry shells, seeds, ivory, animal skins and metal (copper, gold, iron) as currency for trade. Because most African societies were at least partly dependent on farming, hoes were highly prized, especially those with iron blades forged by blacksmith from locally smelted iron. Although functional iron hoe blades could be used for barter, some societies created nonutilitarian “knock offs” of hoes and other functional metal implements to be used only for trade. In this case, the “knockoff” is a massive, scooped version of a hoe blade that was used for important transactions such as bride price or kept as a store of wealth much as people now keep their wealth in a bank. Probably dates from the 19th century or earlier. On custom wall mount. Native smelted and hand forged iron with oxidized surface. H25in W18.5in.

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BARK CLOTH PRESTIGE DANCE SKIRT. Kuba people, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). By contrast with the more common dance skirt made from woven raffia cloth, those made from bark are rare. This is the oldest form of Kuba textile made from the beaten inner bark of certain trees, referred to as “the cloth of ancestors”. The most highly prized and prestigious bark cloth dance skirts, such as this example, are quilted from hand sewn triangular pieces of natural (pale) and brown (dyed) bark cloth. The borders of this cloth are formed by hand woven, hand stitched raffia cloth that is decorated with balls of raffia fibers. Bark cloth, raffia cloth, raffia fibers. 19.5in x 70in.

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BUNDU (SOWEI) HELMET MASK. Mende people, Sierra Leone. The bifurcated top knot arises from an elaborately plaited coiffure. Round 1.75inch mirrors surrounded by delicate scroll work are situated in the front and back of the coiffure, representing mirrors that were sometimes worn by Bundu initiates in their hair. The mirror can see and repel forces of evil witchcraft, and thereby protect the wearer. A finely finished mask on custom base. Wood, pigment. H17in. Exhibited at the Free Library Gallery Philadelphia 2012. Published in “Masks from West and Central Africa” 2013 p48 Fig50.

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ELU FACE MASKS (2). Ogoni people, Nigeria. Elu masks, characterized by hinged, articulated jaws, are worn by men during masquerades related to religious and social functions. They refer to humorous, tragic, and joyous events recorded in oral traditions or songs, as well as offering commentary on recent events. A face painted white with kaolin pigment refers to an ancestral spirit. (A) The hairstyle of this female mask has a central conical top knot and two lateral hanging braids. Teeth are present. Wood, pigment. H10.5in. (B) This mask has a man’s pompadour hair style. Teeth are present. Wood, pigment. H8in. Both published in “Masks from West and Central Africa” 2013. (A) p109 Fig145 (B) p112 Fig150.

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TWISTED TRIPLE COIL KNOTTED CURRENCY BRACELET. Igbo people, Nigeria. Bracelets made from twisted metal rods were masterpieces created by Nigerian blacksmiths in the late 19th century. Heavy rings such as this piece were reserved for important trades and kept as a store of wealth. The end of the twisted rod is defined by a hairpin turn where the rod doubles back on itself. The knot is a symbol of permanence. The skill required to create this bracelet free hand from a hot copper rod may no longer exist. On custom base. Oxidized copper. H2in. Diameter 4in. Exhibited at the Pen and Brush Gallery New York 2003.

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MAMI WATA REVERSE GLASS PAINTING. Ivory Coast. The skill and tradition to paint images in reverse on glass is uniquely limited to Senegal and Ivory Coast in Africa. The traditional subjects were views of Mecca, inscriptions from the Koran, and images of holy men. This picture depicts Mami Wata, a deity not traditionally linked to Islam, who is a charismatic, beautiful woman concerned with wealth (which she can give or take away) and mental illness (which she can cause or cure). Her image is based on a 19th century photograph, widely distributed in Africa, of a Samoan snake charmer. Pictures and sculptures of Mami Wata typically are part of shrines to her that can be found throughout Africa. In this rendition, Mami Wata’s belt is weighed down by bags containing riches such as gold and jewels. The lozenge-shaped objects on the grey snake she is holding represent cowry shells which are a symbol of wealth. In the lower left diamond-shaped panel there is an image of Mami Wata charming snakes with a double flute. The text reads “Cote D’Ivoire- Ya mossokoro” and “Mummy-Water”. The picture is signed by the artist, “ISALI Rufisone”. Glass, paint. 15in x 21.5in.

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RARE OLD PRESTIGE DANCE SKIRT WITH GINGHAM PATCHES. Kuba people, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). This unusual textile consists of hand woven, hand sewn strips of raffia cloth varying in width that are decorated with elaborate, embroidered traditional designs and small patches of green, red, and blue cotton gingham cloth. This textile is estimated to date from before the mid-20th century when Western cotton gingham cloth was rarely available to the Kuba people and highly prized by them. It also dates from a time before strip weaving of raffia cloth was replaced by panel weaving that is typically found today in Kuba dance skirts. Raffia cloth, gingham cotton cloth. 39in x 171in.

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PASSPORT MASKS (2). Liberia, Ivory Coast. Passport masks are miniature copies of traditional tribal face masks. They were a form of identification when individuals traveled away from their home territory. The narrow, slit eyes of both masks indicate a female mask form. Each is on a custom base. (A) Bassa people with eyes high in the face, a band carved across the forehead, and hair carved at the top. Wood. H4.5in. (B) Dan people. Wood. H3.5in. Acquired from a New York collector who wishes not to be identified. Note the collection numbers on the backs.

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ASAFO MILITIA FLAG. Fante people, Ghana. The message given by this flag is to avoid being lured into dangerous behavior for short-term gain. This is expressed by the proverb, “If you set a trap with evil intent, you might find yourself ensnared by your malicious behavior” (caught in your own trap). The flag dates from the 1960’s. The bow-shaped object placed diagonally in the center is a jack trap used to capture big game. The narrator (green figure) pointing to the trap represents the Asafo Company that owns the flag. He is warning the other figure representing a rival Company not to be tempted to attack. The fabric has a silky texture (?silk, ?rayon). The flag is entirely hand sewn with a Union Jack canton and embroidered details. Ex Duncan Clarke Gallery London. 33in x 59in. Exhibited at the Free Library Gallery Philadelphia 2011, SMA Fathers Museum of African Art Tenafly NJ 2013 and University of Memphis TN 2014. Published in “Emblems of Power. Asafo Flags from Ghana” p 91 Fig 98. This 103-page book is only available from the authors at ppr2001@med.cornell.edu.

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RASP GONG. Lobi people, Burkina Faso. Rasp gongs, made from wood or metal, are musical instruments used throughout Africa, especially the Western and Central regions. They are hollow, tubular forms that differ from simple gongs in that part of the external surface has a rough, striated or notched texture which produces a rasping sound when rubbed with a wood or metal stick. They may also be played by beating the outside with the same rod. This old example was made from hand forged iron that is now heavily oxidized. Note the dentate surfaces along the open edges of the tube. A wooden handle was attached to the metal flange in the center. On custom base. Hand forged iron. L11in.

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FIGURATIVE GOLD WEIGHTS (2). Ashante people, Ghana. Gold, largely in the form of small particles, was used for centuries as currency in the region called the Gold Coast (now Ghana) and surrounding areas of West Africa. Scales and weights to weigh the gold were probably introduced to the Gold Coast by Islamic traders who crossed the Sahara Desert from the north prior to the 15th century. Reflecting Islamic aversion to representational and figural sculpture, the earliest weights had geometric forms. Weights depicting persons, animals, and everyday objects began to appear in the 17th century. Since gold weights are made individually by the lost wax method, each is unique. These examples date from the late 18th to early 19th centuries. Brass. (A) Man playing a talking drum. H2in. (B) Farmer holding a bowl and with a hoe on his shoulder. H2in.

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CEREMONIAL (ADANUDO) ROBE. Ewe people, Ghana. This cloth consists of colorful, narrow weft bands with no warp stripes, referred to as a “bar form” design. It is attributed to the Adangbe Ewe people. Ex Eric Robertson Collection. Eight handwoven, hand sewn 3.5in strips. Cotton 62in x 126in.

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FIGURATIVE GOLD WEIGHTS (2). Ashante people, Ghana. (A) Ashante queen seated on a traditional stool with an unusual disc-shaped pedestal. H3.25in. (B) Spoon in the form of an old wise man with a long, braided beard. H3.25in. Both brass, made by the lost wax method, dating from late 19th century.

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PRIZED MAN’S CEREMONIAL ROBE NAMED “OHENE AFORO HYEN”. Ashante people, Ghana. The title of the design of this cloth means “the King has boarded a ship”. This refers to an event in 1937 before Ghana gained independence from Great Britain. After putting down a rebellion by the Ashante people, the Ashante King, Prempeh I, was captured and sent into exile in the Seychelles Islands on a ship. This event not only signaled the end of the Ashante Kingdom, but it also broke the centuries-old tradition that the King would not cross the Pra River (which he had to cross in his journey into exile). The cloth was collected in Bonwire, the center of Ashante weaving. The weaver was Nana Mensah Abrampa and the estimated age is 80 years. Silk. 77in x 123.5in.

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CEREMONIAL KNIFE. Kuba or Dengese people, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). The surfaces of this unusual knife-form ceremonial object are covered by punched and linear designs similar to those found in their elaborate body scarifications (Dengese) and sculptures or textiles (Kuba). The shape of the blade and handle are typical for knifes used as weapons or for ceremony by these native groups. What makes this exceptional is the fact that it was cast as a single piece in copper (rather than an iron blade with wood handle), and the oval fenestration in the blade. Copper was so prized that small pieces were sometimes inserted into the iron blade of a knife to enhance its value, but in this case the entire knife is copper. Of note is the fixed clapper-like form inside the bell-shaped base of the handle. On custom base. Solid copper. H12in.

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MEDICINE HORN. Mende people, Sierra Leone. This is an amulet that is worn by a young girl from a high-status family after her initiation into the women’s Bundu (Sande) Society. The form is based on the horns used by hunters to carry gun powder in the era of muzzle-loading rifles. The hollowed goat horn is filled with protective magical substances that may include gun powder as well as a piece of paper with a scriptural passage. The ends are closed with decorative silver caps. Collected in Segbwema in the Kenema region. Goat horn, silver, fine silver chain. Horn 8in on 13.5in chain. See 1910 photograph showing two Bundu initiates wearing medicine horns. The rectangular objects worn on chains by several women are also amulets.

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SEATED MINSERAH FIGURE. Mende people, Sierra Leone. Minserah are female statues that women consulted for assistance with infertility and other personal issues. The top of the coiffure wrapped with string forms a cup into which libations were placed. She is wearing a skirt and a necklace of beads with a Kola nut pendant. Kola nuts, which contain caffeine, have a long history in Africa where they were used variously as currency, gifts, a symbol of welcome to guests, and religious offerings. The prominent abdomen suggests pregnancy. Collected in the Pujahon region. Wood, pigment, string. H27.5in.

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BOW AND ARROW FETISH. Fon people, Benin. In contrast to the usual example with one arrow, this very powerful fetish has three arrows that endow it with exceptional strength. Hunters offered libations at this altar before going out to hunt. The form of this fetish links hunting to the era before the introduction of firearms by Europeans. This example dates from the early 20th century. On custom base. Hand forged iron. H9in.

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TRADITIONAL WEST AFRICAN LADDER. Lobi people, Burkina Faso. Ladders of this type were leaned against the outside wall of a house and used to climb to the roof where the family slept when it was oppressively hot. Instead of facing it as one would on a conventional Western-style ladder with rungs, one climbs turned sideways. This example shows extensive wear from use and has gained a beautiful patina from exposure to the elements over many years. On custom base. Wood. H54in.

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HEAD RESTS. Ethiopia. (A) Oromo people. Block form with carved ivory bust of King Omar. Dates from early 20th century. Wood, pre-embargo ivory. H6.5in. (B) Arusi people. Central post in form of human lower torso and legs. Carved designs on base. Excellent patina from use. Early 20th century. Wood. H6.5in. (C) Oromo people. Finely carved designs on the hollow, conical base. Beautiful patina. Mid-20th century. Wood. H6.5in. (D) Kaffa people. Pedestal base supports a sturdy post decorated with a carved wooden disc. Excellent dark patina. Mid-20th century. Wood. H6.75in.

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SNAKE (BANSONYI) HEADDRESS. Baga people, Guinea. The snake headdress mask or “Master of Medicine” represents the snake spirit that is associated with fertility, prosperity, and protection from danger. Placed in a receptacle in a conical armature that is supported on the performer’s shoulders, the snake towers above his head. Bansonyi appears at male initiation ceremonies. The face is defined by raised, round eyes set high on either side of the triangular head. A ridge with carved motifs extends along the full length of the front. Remnants of layers of paint are evident on the surface. The concave base would sit like a cap on the performer’s padded head, held in place by an armature (see picture). This example dates from the 1930s-1940s prior to Guinea’s independence from France in 1958. After independence, the Muslim-dominant, Socialist-Communist government of Guinea decreed that all objects related to native religious practices be destroyed. This included virtually all Bansonyi existing at the time. However, a small number were rescued by European collectors and a few were hidden away in remote rural villages. This example belongs to the latter group. Wood, paint. H52in. Published in “Masks from West and Central Africa” p17 Fig5.

Similar to the Baga Serpent, Republic of Guinea sold by Southeby's

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ABSTRACT SHETANI SCULPTURE. Makonde people, Kenya/Tanzania. Shetani are said to represent the “spirits of the Makonde people” carved in a modern form. The origin of this style of carving in ebony wood has been traced to a carver named Samaki who began to produce non-traditional carvings in the mid-1950s. It is not known whether this style of sculpture was influenced by the work of modern European artists like Picasso. This piece is signed “Mauku” on the side of the base, presumably the name of the artist. It appears to consist of disembodied anatomic elements entwined in a serpentine structure. It requires great skill to sculpt such a complex figure out of a block of dense, hard ebony wood. Light patches are part of the grain of the wood and not chipped spots. Collected in a Nairobi, Kenya gallery in 1986. Ebony wood. H24in.

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PRE-COIN SUU OR SO CURRENCY. Mambila and Mfunte people, Cameroon, Nigeria. Used for payment in important transactions like dowry and “bride price” throughout the region bordering Nigeria and Cameroon. Sometimes referred to as hoe-form because of a resemblance to smaller hoe blades used in the area. Hand forged with a dramatic form and beautifully oxidized surface from exposure to the elements. Early 20th century. On custom base. H28in.

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PRE-COIN SPEAR-FORM CURRENCY. (A) Nbaka, Baia and Dia people, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). Sometimes referred to as “Mbili Nbaka” meaning “money of the Nbaka”. It was used as a dowry payment in marriage contracts. The blade of this spectacular example is decorated with red and white pigment. Hand forged. Early 20th century. On custom base. Iron, pigment. H28in. (B) Bozo people, Mali. The livelihood of the Bozo people who live along the Niger River depends on fishing. An implement used to catch fish such as this spear/harpoon point was used as a form of currency. By itself it has an interesting anthropomorphic form with a twisted shaft. On custom base. Hand forged iron. H14in.

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SNAKE FETISHES. Lobi people, Burkina Faso. Snakes were believed to be intermediaries with ancestors. They were also feared because their bite could be fatal. Various snake forms were worn as charms to ward off snake bites and they were placed in altars for prayers. Each on custom base. (A) Type worn on leg to protect against snakes (see picture). Dates from 1950s. Hand forged iron. H14in. (B) Representing a poisonous type of horned viper, this type was placed vertically with the tail embedded in the ground in an altar. Note the twisted neck. Dates from 1950s. Hand forged iron. H12in. (C) Three-headed altar snake (see picture). Note eyes on the heads. This fetish dates from the 1930s. Hand forged iron. H8in. All exhibited at the Pen and Brush Gallery New York 2003.

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SICKLE FORM THROWING KNIFES. Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). (A) Topoke people. Blade is sharp on both edges. Although it could have been used as a weapon, this knife was mainly a prestige object carried by a village dignitary as seen in the picture from 1910 of an aged village leader on a prestige seat (ordinary people sat on a rock or on the ground) holding an identical weapon in his left hand. The handle has fine copper wire wrapping. Hand forged iron, copper, wood. H25.5in.(B)Nsakara people. Similar to (A) but only the concave edge is sharp and there is a perforated, rectangular stub at the base of the blade. Hand forged blade with central ridge shows evidence of use. On custom base. Iron, wood. H18.5in.

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PARADE KNIFE. Kundu or Konda people, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). These non-functional knifes were carried in ceremonies and were prized as souvenirs by Belgian colonial administrators. The figure in this example has one arm raised and the other dependent. Designs reflective of body scarifications have been incised in the torso. The handle is wood that is decorated with brass wire and tacks. Dates from the 1930s. Iron, wood, brass wire, tacks. H21in.

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HEART-SHAPED BATTLE KNIFE. Mongo, Saka, Kutu people, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire), The entire handle of this unusual knife is wrapped with copper, indicating that it was a prestige object as well as a weapon. The hand forged heavy blade displays marks of the blacksmith’s tools, and it is strengthened by two ridges that come together at the point. Early 20th century. On custom base. Iron, copper, wood. H28in.

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CEREMONIAL CLUB-SHAPED KNIFE WITH FUR POMMEL. Poto people, Democratic Republic of Congo (Zaire). The vaguely anthropomorphic blade with three struts at its base, has a finely engraved asymmetric design. The shaft of the handle is tightly wrapped with copper wire and the pommel is a ball of fur from a dangerous feline predator such as a leopard. It is reported that magical plant material contained within the fur ball gives the knife exceptional power. Markings on the blade indicate membership in a particular secret society. Although primarily carried on ceremonial occasions, Poto knifes were also battle weapons. Dated 1920s. Iron, wood, copper wire, fur. H25.5in.

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SICKLE-FORM CEREMONIAL KNIFE. Mambila people, Cameroon. The high status of the owner of this knife is indicated by the blade made entirely of copper with a C-shaped engraved decoration and the floret-form stub at the base. The wood handle was wrapped in wire, some of which is lost. On custom base. Copper, wood, wire. H14in.

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LID FROM BOWL FOR SERVING WAADII. Oromo people, Ethiopia. Waadii or tibs is a dish consisting of meat sautéed with vegetables and spices that is served to commemorate special occasions. This mammary-form lid is decorated with carved circumferential, traditional triangular designs. Custom wall mount. Wood. Diameter. 14in.

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BIRD HEAD SICKLE-FORM CEREMONIAL THROWING KNIFE. Falli, Margi, and Kapsiki people, Cameroon. The blade of this hand forged ritual knife represents the head of a cock, a bird with important ritual importance to these people. The twisted shaft ends in a hollow socket that contained a short wooden handle part of which remains. The upper part of the shaft of this exceptional example is wrapped with copper wire as a mark of high prestige. These knifes were carried by women (see picture) in ritual dances, including at funerals. During the dance, each woman held a knife above her head with her right hand while holding her right breast with her left hand. The knife is a symbol of fertility and female empowerment. On custom base. Iron, copper, wood, copper wire. H16in. Exhibited at the Pen and Brush Gallery New York 2003.

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“MONEY TREE” SWORD. Yoruba people, Nigeria. Ceremonial swords with this general shape have been prestige objects carried by Yoruba men for centuries. The spiral “horns” at the top of the handle are a characteristic feature. The British colonial administration introduced coin currency (paper would not survive long in the climate) in the 19th century. The brass coins were in the shape of a washer (see LOT #6) with a central hole so that the coins could be carried on a string like beads because at the time native clothing usually did not have pockets. Although not well received initially, by the early 20th century coins were in wide use. The accumulation of coins became a sign of wealth which could be displayed by tying them to specially designed “money tree” swords such as this example that dates from around 1920. On custom base. Iron. H17.5in.

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2001 Fermec 860B loader backhoe. Serial: SMFB44TCO18EM3956. Runs & operates; 4WD; Hours reading: 3049.9; center instrument cluster was replaced, actual machine hours approx. 7000hrs. Speedometer doesn’t work. Needs hydraulic fluid cooler.

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2000 International 4800 DT466E dump truck. Odometer reading 1166. VIN#: 1HTSEAAR7YH231491. Includes Flink salter. Must be towed.

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Water pump. Manufacturer unknown. Operational.

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Capitol custom 908 stereophonic record player model SA-908, Panasonic Solid State TV model# TR-525 manufactured December 1975, Panasonic TV camera model WV-341P. Pickup only.

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Vintage Kenmore desk fan RadioShack full-size stereo headphones with box, Welbilt AM/FM collector's edition radio model 1933, and Presto HeatDish plus FootLight. Pickup only.

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NASCAR sheet metal body panels incl one appearing to be signed by Brad Keselowski #88, other pieces believed to be from Jimmie Johnson, Kyle Busch, and Kurt Busch, company stickers incl "K&N", "Kobalt Tools", and "Goodyear", also having NASCAR 60 years sticker, sizes range from 13"x10.5" to 37"x26". Pickup only.

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Furniture incl single door cabinet having one interior shelf 24"x17"x70.5"T, four shelf corner stand, two drawer side table with dovetailed drawers, lift top coffee table 36"x24"x19.5"T, floor lamp with frosted shade. Pickup only

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Furniture incl two door cabinet having three interior shelves 38.5"x21"x70.5"T, two door entertainment stand with two interior shelves, Sentry safe with only visible marking being "1250" NO COMBINATION 15"x17"x17"T, Kenmore 35 pint dehumidifier, stone inlayed coffee table with stretcher base on casters 48"x28"x20"T, two card tables, two plastic arm chairs and eight folding chairs. Pickup only.

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Two fireplace screens one having glass doors other having chain style screen, larger being 46"W. Pickup only.

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NASCAR sheet metal body panels some drivers believed to incl Carl Edwards, Kurt Busch, Clint Bowyer, and Kyle Petty, some company stickers incl "K&N", "Sylvania", "3M", "Moog Chassis Parts", "Lincoln Welders", "SKF", "Mahle Engine Bearings", "Claritin", "Coors Light Pole", and "NASCAR Sprint Cup Series", sizes range from 12"x12" to 30"x31". Pickup only.

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Two hanging mirrors one having decorative carving at top both with beveled glass larger being 25"x37.5"T. Pickup only.

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Samsung DVD/VHS player model #DVD-V5650 with remote control, Emerson DVD/VHS player with remote control, universal controller, VHS tapes incl Remember the Titans, The Scorpion King, Apollo 13, Legally Blonde, Tombstone, Gold, Sinbad, Bagger Vance, The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, etc., also having decorative tree display.

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Machine made area rug approx. 120"x96". Pickup only.

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Verifax Regent Copier model F, having 20 bulbs 105-125 volts, also incl Panasonic record player model# SG-D16, AM/FM stereo tuner, Stereo control amplifier, double cassette deck, having two speakers mode SB-D160, etc. Pickup only.

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Three sets of area rugs varying in style and size incl one having floral decoration throughout, sizes incl 45.5"x27.5", 35"x19.5" and 58"x21.5". Pickup only.

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Red painted display case having interior lighting 66"x25"x40.5"T. Pickup only.

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Machine made wool pile area rug having geometrical pattern throughout approx. 96"x61". Pickup only.

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German stein having hand painted decoration of people shore line fishing with one in boat fishing, having eagle finial marked on bottom "Ges Gesch", in glass case, stein measuring 16"T.

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Machine made area rug having geometrical pattern throughout approx. 94"x61". Pickup only.

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Display case having two glass front doors with metal pulls and four removable glass shelves, approx. 47.5"x15.5"x76"T. Pickup only.

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Machine made area rug having vine and geometric pattern throughout approx. 119"x95". Pickup only.

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Expandable table having 18.25" leaf, 48.5"x48.5"x35.5"T. Pickup only.

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Brass headboard 63"x37"T and upholstered seated bench having hinged top with red stripe decoration on white fabric 40"x19"x19"T. Pickup only.

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Three matching leather seat stainless bar stools having lower foot rest and column style pedestal, 18"W. Pickup only.

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Mirrored back four drawer dresser having dovetailed construction two dresser top storage areas, bottom drawer with lid, applied carving throughout on wood casters, 34"x18" X` 68"T.

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Two door over three drawer secretary having fold down writing surface (in need of repair) having two interior removable shelves, pigeon hole cubbies, dovetailed drawers all with matching metal batwing hardware 30"x16"x68"T, also incl three drawer slant front desk (Missing one drawer) with matching wood pulls, pigeon hole cubbies, 30"x15"x40.5"T. Pickup only.

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White wicker furniture incl couch with removable cushions having floral uph 72"W, two arm chairs with floral decorated cushions wider being 31"W, side table with removable top and lower storage section 41"diax17.5T, also incl coffee table having lower storage area. Pickup only.

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Pair of matching Moroccan sofas having decorative carvings at base having pillows, and blankets, 95"x32"x18.5"T. Pickup only.

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Framed advertisement signs incl "Le Chat Noir", "Chat Noir", "Trappistes Chimay Trappisten", "Delirium tremens", "Edible Crustaceans", also incl two framed prints both signed lower left "Tim Thompson, largest being 36"x30". Pickup only.

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Advertisement signs incl "Bientut", "Chimay Trappiste", "Super Special", "Chats Lunatiques", "ChatNoir", "Mc Chouffe", etc.

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Hand painted decorative metal and porcelain eggs some having floral decoration, dragon decoration, gilt decoration, etc.

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George Steck upright piano marked on inside "168315", 55.5"x23"x39.5"T with bench 35.75"x15.75"x23.75"T, may have to be retuned. Buyer is responsible to bring proper help for removal. Pickup only

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Three remote control airplanes incl "Midwest Aero-Star .40", "Hobbico Avistar", and one unmarked, having two controllers incl Futaba Conquest digital proportional radio control system model # FP-T4NBF and JR Sport 4 channel precision sport radio control system model # S400, also having wings for airplanes and gliders sizes range from 59"W to approx. 99.5"W. Pickup only.

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Four Oriental mixed media framed artwork of women by staircase having painted mother of pearl decoration throughout, painted geometric pattern throughout on frame 12"x36", Detecto-Medic scale by Jacobs Bros Co. Inc. 300 lb capacity scale 60"T, wood top cart having lower wooden shelf and large casters 24"x36"x37.5"T, and four mirror finished trays on stands 27.5"T. Pickup only.

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Seven drawer roll top desk having 10 pigeon hole cubbies, brass pulls, 48"x22"x46"T. Pickup only.