While many tribal art events are staged in major cities, this is a chance to enjoy these works in the rural relaxed setting of southern Burgundy on the estate belonging to the art dealer Bruno Mory.
The converted stone barns of his gallery are an attractive backdrop in which to view these pieces alongside Mory’s contemporary art.
What is more, Burgundy’s world-famous vineyards and historic buildings are all within easy reach as extra attractions.
There will be 22 exhibitors (including nine newcomers) taking part in this year’s show from May 24-27. They come from across Europe (France, Belgium, the UK and Spain) plus one from Bangkok. The majority of the participants also show at the main French event in Paris, the Parcours des Mondes.
It was created by the Bamana people from the Bamako region of Mali and forms part of a mask for an initiation dance relating to harvesting and work in the fields. From the early 20th century and measuring 18in (46.5cm) long, it has an earlier provenance to the collection of Olivier Lecorneur, Paris, 1958.
Laurent Dodier, one of the founder-dealers of the event, explains the concept of the Burgundian show: “The idea was to organise a tribal art fair outside the European capitals in the countryside, in order to be able to spend more time with the objects so that everyone can discuss in a relaxed way with a glass of Burgundy in their hand.
“Big shows cost a lot of money,” he adds, “so if they want to succeed, the exhibitors can only take expensive pieces. Here, the costs are reduced to a minimum so we can bring works that young collectors can afford and demonstrate that there are plenty of authentic works at lower prices.”
Dodier said his display will include three-star items priced between €12,000-18,000 and around 40 others priced from €300- 4000, hailing from Africa, America and Oceania.
A longer feature on tribal art will appear in a forthcoming edition of ATG.
