Kota Reliquary Guardian Figure, Gabon | SKU: D1032
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One-of-a-kind piece
Ethically sourced across Africa
Carefully packed, ships from NYC
Family gallery since 1975
Pickup available at Hemingway African Gallery
Usually ready in 1 hour
Kota Reliquary Guardian Figure, Gabon | SKU: D1032
Hemingway African Gallery
88 Leonard St.
New York NY 10013
United States
This is a decorative contemporary piece.
All Masks |
All Decorative Art |
Kota Reliquary Guardian Figure from Gabon Description of Significance
Kota reliquary guardian figures come from eastern Gabon and early figures were used to protect the remains of important ancestors. Families kept bones in containers, with a carved figure placed on top as a spiritual guardian. The figures were often covered in shiny brass or copper, which symbolized power, protection, and respect for the dead. They played a central role in honoring ancestors, who were believed to watch over and guide the living.
Kota figures come in various shapes and forms. All, however, evoke geometric stylized designs. This figure is a remarkable representation of the older reliquaries and was made by an artist who's ancestors would have created the original protective pieces.
Country of Origin
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Hand carved in Gabon
Dimensions (inches)
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Depth: 3"
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Width: 8"
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Height: 21"
- Dimension with Base: Depth: 4" Width: 8" Height: 23"
Sustainable Materials & Display
- Metal copper alloy encasing indigenous wood.
- Includes the base shown in the photos which makes this piece free-standing.
Shipping
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Subsidized U.S. FedEx Ground shipping: $30
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Smaller pieces are shipped via FedEx Ground in a secure box, with careful packaging to ensure safe delivery. To make fine art shipping more affordable, we subsidize part of the cost.
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Each shipment includes a declared value, requiring a signature upon delivery for added security.
Hemingway Gallery carefully selects pieces from artists and collectors whose work aligns with our historical and aesthetic standards. This includes newly created artworks that are actively used in ceremonies, which we deeply value despite their lack of age or antiquity. We recognize these as authentic expressions of artistic and cultural heritage, rather than mere tourist trade items.
Our collection also features works by skilled artisans who create fine art inspired by historic styles, as well as contemporary African pieces that may not fit traditional perceptions of ‘African’ art. We celebrate the evolving aesthetics of the continent, striving to showcase design that moves beyond the conventional ‘tribal’ label, reflecting the innovation and creativity of emerging artists.
Our pricing reflects the asking prices set by the artists, artisans, and art dealers in the African countries where we collect, as well as the real costs of responsibly importing their work to the United States. We are committed to challenging the outdated notion that fine art from Africa should be undervalued. Paying artists fairly is our highest priority, and our pricing is structured to honor their skill, labor, and cultural contribution.
We ship around the world! Our website cannot process automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the continental U.S.A., (including Hawaii and Alaska).
Free shipping often means the cost is hidden in the product price, a common tactic that can mislead buyers. In fine art, transparency matters—buyers shouldn’t pay for shipping they don’t use. That’s why our pricing is straightforward, without hidden fees, ensuring fairness whether you pick up your art or have it shipped.
Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information about this specific piece.
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