African, Oceanic and Pre-Columbian Art

The African, Oceanic and Pre-Columbian Art sales at Bonhams, held twice anually, feature unique and traditional works from sub-Saharan Africa, 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 the artists for religious, ceremonial or secular use within their culture, objects 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.

Highlights from past auctions

Sold for US$ 32,500 inc. premium
Exceptional and Rare Maori Hand Club, New Zealand length 15 5/8in (40cm)
Sold for US$ 56,250 inc. premium
Rare and Historically-Important Barbed Spear, Hawaiian Islands
Sold for US$ 62,500 inc. premium
Exceptional and Rare Marquesas Islands Club, French Polynesia Length 51in (129.5cm)
Sold for US$ 146,500 inc. premium
Rare and Important Rarotonga or Atiu Pole-Club, 'akatara, Cook Islands

Contacts

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

Valuation events