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ID #SA1081857
FOR SALE
£475
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A Rare and Unusual African Tribal Ceremonial Carved Bone Axe
For sale by Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques
for sale €556     $603
£475
Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques

Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques

Sellingantiques Verified Since Jun 2019
Browse dealers 272 items
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    Oriental art,fine period ivories bronzes,ceramics unusual silver objects and tribal art.
Id #SA1081857
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A Rare and Unusual African Tribal Ceremonial Carved Bone Axe

19th century
Description

A rare and unusual African tribal ceremonial axe with carved bone shaft depicting two well executed tribal figures and bound with copper wire and a nice rich deep patina. There is £15 charge for postage and packing international Shipping A shipping quote is available on request

Physical Dimensions
Height
37cm (14.57")
Width
14cm (5.51")
Depth
4cm (1.57")
Declaration

Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques has dated this Carved Bone Ceremonial Axe to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1081857
Dealers Notes

You are most welcome to call or email us with your enquiry.

Please call 07956 448876 (0044 7956 448876 if you are outside the UK) or email us to

Description
A rare and unusual African tribal ceremonial axe with carved bone shaft depicting two well executed tribal figures and bound with copper wire and a nice rich deep patina.
“
There is £15 charge for postage and packing international Shipping A shipping quote is available on request.
Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques
Height
37cm (14.57")
Width
14cm (5.51")
Depth
4cm (1.57")
Date of Manufacture

Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques has dated this Carved Bone Ceremonial Axe to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1081857
Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques
Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques
Sellingantiques verified Since Jun 2019

Oriental art,fine period ivories bronzes,ceramics unusual silver objects and tribal art.

Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques Profile Page

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A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base.
1 / 10
Archive I A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base.

A Rare and Unusual African Tribal Ceremonial Carved Bone Axe

Archive II A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View II
Archive III A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View III
Archive IV A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View IV
Archive V A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View V
Archive VI A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View VI
Archive VII A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View VII
Archive VIII A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View VIII
Archive IX A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View IX
Archive X A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. View X
Enlarged Archival View
Telephone 07956 448876
Location
London
United Kingdom

By appointment only.
Verified Since Jun 2019
Items For Sale 272
Items Sold 301
Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques
Gerard Robinson Fine Art and Antiques
Verified Since Jun 2019
View Dealer Info
Location: London, United Kingdom, , By appointment only.
Verified
Jun 2019
For Sale
272
Sold
301
A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base.
A rare and unusual African tribal ceremonial carved bone axe
Ref: SA1081857
A carved bone ceremonial axe featuring stacked figurative human carvings along the shaft and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base.
Detail View 1
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Archival Detail
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Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectCeremonial Objects
  • Period19th century
  • StyleAfrican Tribal
  • MaterialBone, Iron, Fibre
  • ColourCream, Dark Brown
  • MotifsFigurative human carvings, Incised band patterns, Iron axe blade, Fibre binding
  • SizeH 37 cm (15 in) x W 14 cm (6 in) x D 4 cm (2 in)

This nineteenth-century African tribal ceremonial axe comprises a cream-coloured carved bone shaft detailed with stacked figurative human carvings, incised band patterns, dark brown fibre bindings, and a small dark iron blade fixed near the base. The upright composition presents a narrow vertical profile measuring 37 cm high, 14 cm wide, and 4 cm deep. Distinctive visual elements include the contrasting dark brown bindings around the upper and lower sections, the textured surface wear, and the flat metal blade extending to the left. Positioned on a bookshelf or within a gentleman's library, this traditional object serves as a striking decorative display piece. The item rests securely on a flat surface, demonstrating clear signs of age across the weathered bone material and darkened metal components. Natural ambient lighting highlights the varied textures of the carved surface against the pale background, emphasizing the intricate relief work of the human figures and geometric lower bands.

Ceremonial axes in African tribal art traditionally served as symbols of status, authority, and spiritual connection rather than functional weapons. They were carried by leaders, healers, or elevated community members during formal rites and public gatherings.

These ceremonial objects frequently incorporate carved bone or hardwood shafts paired with hand-forged iron blades. Wrapped wire, cordage, or leather bindings were routinely applied to secure components and add structural reinforcement.

Authentic items display subtle surface wear, handling patina, and traditional hand-tool marking along the carvings. Natural bone features characteristic pore structures and irregular patination, while forged iron blades show signs of manual shaping.

Sculptural ethnographic items can be presented on bespoke black metal stands, displayed inside glass vitrines, or placed alongside volumes on a bookshelf. Positioned against muted wall shades, the tactile material and carving details create strong visual interest.

Keep bone objects away from direct sunlight, extreme humidity, and strong heat sources to avoid warping or surface cracking. Dust periodically using a soft, dry microfibre brush, avoiding water, harsh detergents, or chemical polishes.
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