Bidspirit auction | African Stylized Wood and Brass

African Stylized Wood and Brass Sheeting Antelope Sculpture - This stylized zoomorphic sculpture depicts an elongated quadruped resembling an antelope. The object is constructed from a hand-carved wooden core with a dark finish, partially clad in overlapping rectangular sheets of hammered yellow metal foil, likely brass or a similar copper alloy. These sheets are secured to the wooden frame with a systematic application of numerous small, round-headed metal tacks, creating a textured surface. The head features long, backward-curving horns and a small forehead crest with incised cross-hatching. The figure is supported by two integral wooden legs that flare into a solid, circular, rough-hewn wooden base. The construction technique of applying metal sheeting over wood is characteristic of Central African artistic traditions, such as those of the Kota and Obamba peoples of Gabon. No maker marks, signatures, or inscriptions are present. Length: 19 inches Base Diameter: 4 inches The sculpture is in good vintage condition. The metal foil shows age-related oxidation, tarnish, and scattered spots of green verdigris. There are minor instances of the metal sheeting lifting or tearing, specifically along the edges of the applied sheets. The wooden base exhibits natural checking and drying cracks consistent with age and material.