African, Oceanic and Pre-Columbian Art

The African, Oceanic and Pre-Columbian Art auctions at Bonhams feature unique, fresh-to-the-market artworks from sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania (Polynesia, Melanesia, Micronesia, Indonesia and Australia) created in the early 20th century or earlier, and works from Central and South America created prior to European contact in the 16th century. Made by artists for religious, ceremonial or secular use within their culture, artworks in the sale include figurative sculpture, masks, reliquaries, shrines, architectural ornaments, clubs, shields, vessels, stools, neck rests, instruments, body adornment and many daily utilitarian objects.

Auctions are held each May and November in New York City. In addition, Bonhams is the only international auction house to conduct an auction solely devoted to Oceanic Art which is held annually in February in San Francisco.

Highlights from past auctions

Sold for US$ 68,500 inc. premium
Important and Rare Chokwe Female Figure, Angola height 43 1/2in (110.5cm)
Sold for US$ 182,500 inc. premium
Kuba Figure of a King, Democratic Republic of Congo
Sold for US$ 43,750 inc. premium
Club, Marquesas Island
Sold for US$ 68,500 inc. premium
Important and Rare Pole Club, Rarotonga, Cook Islands

Contacts

African, Oceanic and Pre-Columbian (US) Bonhams
Work
Work +1 323 436 5416
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African, Modern and Contemporary Art Bonhams
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Work +44 20 7468 8216
General Enquiries