Superbe appui-tête "mutsago" en forme d'antilope, 19e siècle
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Lot: 255
92e vente aux enchères Tribal ArtSuperbe appui-tête "mutsago" en forme d'antilope, 19e siècle
Zimbabwe, Shona / Tsonga
| Provenance | Taille | Prix d’appel / Prix d'Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| Oliver Miller, Suffolk, Great Britain Bishop & Miller, Suffolk, 4 July 2015 Finch & Co, London, Great Britain (2015) Belgian Collection |
H: 15,5 cm | Cet objet n’est plus disponible. |
wood, superb old silky smooth patina,
Headrests "mutsago" were carved and used solely by men. Primarily they were designed to support the head while sleeping in order to protect elaborate hairstyles.
In addition "mutsago" headrests are believed to connect their owners with the spirit realm. The Shona believe that dreams provide a direct connection between the dreamer and his ancestors ("mudzimu" / "mhondoro"), allowing the dreamer the ability to communicate with the spirits. They are also used as a tool by diviners to communicate with ancestral spirits, asking them for assistance in the physical world.
Headrests were very personal objects. They became closely linked with the owner's identity over a lifetime of use. Upon the death of its owner, the headrest is either buried with him or passed on to a male heir (either his brother or to his son).
