Lot 428

Early Lega Bwami Society Ritual Spoon

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Lot 428
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Early Lega Bwami Society Ritual Spoon
Early Lega Bwami Society Ritual Spoon
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Early Lega Bwami Society Ritual Spoon

Estimate: $500 - $750

Starting Bid: $225

(0 Bids)
by Artemis Fine Arts
July 30, 2026 8:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Boa or Lega culture, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A carved elephant ivory spoon associated with Bwami society ceremonies, the handle sculpted in an abstract symbolic form referencing a tool or proverbial emblem. Among the Lega, such spoons were not utilitarian dining implements but functioned as insignia of rank within the upper levels of the Bwami association and were ritually presented in performances to symbolically nourish masked initiates. Ivory, prized for its density and durability, carried associations of strength and resilience, qualities aligned with moral authority and spiritual endurance within Bwami teachings. Size: 7" L x 1.8" W (17.8 cm x 4.6 cm)

This item is made of or contains elephant ivory and is classified under the ESA (Endangered Species Act) as an exempt piece. Due to federal and state regulations regarding the sale of ivory, this item cannot be shipped internationally or to individuals residing in the following U.S. states: California, Hawaii, Illinois, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington. Additionally, buyers are responsible for ensuring that their purchase complies with all local laws and regulations concerning ivory. We guarantee that this piece meets the criteria for an ESA antique exemption under U.S. Federal law, however, we advise buyers to consult with their local authorities to confirm their ability to legally acquire, possess, trade, or sell this item in your state of residence.

Provenance: ex-private Moore collection, Denver, Colorado, USA, acquired prior to 1990

SHIPPING: We coordinate worldwide shipping in-house through specialist international forwarders experienced with fine art and antiquities customs manifests. International buyers must confirm, prior to bidding, that their country's customs authority will accept the item. All duties, taxes, clearance fees, and any costs arising from customs delays, seizures, re-export, returns, or loss in transit are the buyer's sole responsibility. Artemis assumes no liability for items refused entry, detained, or lost after export. We cannot ship ancient items to their country of origin (Egyptian to Egypt, Greek to Greece, etc.).

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Item # 201216

  • Condition: Repaired, with handle reattached with chip / small loss to this area and faint hairline break visible on surface. Chip to the lower edge as shown. Dark and lustrous patina throughout.

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Shipping

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 $29,999 $1,000
$30,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000