A collector recently asked for my help in finding a genuine Songye figure — the real thing, not one of those overly polished or “enhanced” pieces.
He had found a promising statue through a well-known Parisian dealer. It came with strong provenance and had cost the seller a significant amount. But something about it seemed… off.
I recognized the piece from an old magazine where it had been photographed in the interior of Ladislas Segy, a major collector and dealer of African art.
The problem? Since that photo was taken, the statue had been modified.
A charge had been added around the belly. A horn had been inserted. The patina had been touched up. These additions weren’t original — they were designed to make the piece appear more powerful or valuable, but in truth, they compromised its integrity.
I immediately shared what I’d discovered with my client. Together, we decided to move forward — but with a plan to restore the figure to its original state. We both agreed: better to honor the truth than keep the illusion.
Unfortunately, the previous owner — the one who had bought it from the Parisian dealer — had to take a loss. Enhancements like this may seem appealing, but to serious collectors, they often devalue the object.
This is exactly why I refuse to sell “improved” pieces.
Authenticity isn’t about theatrics. It’s about truth, respect, and historical honesty. And sometimes, that means saying no to a statue — no matter how dramatic it looks.
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If you’re building a collection and want to feel confident in what you’re buying, I’m always here to give a second opinion — without pressure.
Send me a message if you’re ever unsure about a piece. Better to ask than to guess.
