France is still the epicenter of primitive art. Paris is where the finest auctions of works from Africa and Oceania are held. It is also home to the largest concentration of specialized galleries. And every year, the international fair “Parcours des mondes” attracts the most discerning collectors. The Musée du quai Branly and its exhibition policy play a large part in this, as does the presence in France of enthusiasts such as billionaire Marc Ladreit de Lacharrière, honorary president of this event. The cohort of enthusiasts is therefore constantly growing. Fortunately, despite this craze, many artifacts remain accessible.
African arts have been known to the public since Picasso was inspired by them. Prices vary greatly. In the category of masks – the most sought-after object – prices start, for a beautiful piece like a Punu mask with a white face, between 4,000 and 10,000 euros and range between 10,000 and 30,000 euros for a Gouro mask combining animal elements on the hairstyle. But they can also reach new heights. In March 2022, in Montpellier, a 19th-century Fang mask intended to dispense justice was sold for 5.25 million euros. It is close on the heels of the records obtained by a Fang mask from the Vérité collection, sold for 5.75 million euros in June 2006, and by a Fang head from the Périnet collection, sold for 7.68 million euros in June 2021. Similar differences are found in statues.
Combs and bells from 2,000 euros
Everyday objects are more affordable and allow you to start a collection from 2,000 euros. These include combs, spoons, dishes, bells or pulleys for spinning wheels, often carved with characters, animals or plants. These pieces are increasingly popular but there is no overheating in terms of prices.
The arts of Oceania are less famous than those of Africa. However, some prices are resounding. The highest was recorded in Paris, at Christie’s, during the sale of the Michel Périnet collection. A spectacular Micronesian mask from the Mortlock Islands sold for 9.1 million euros, a record for a masterpiece from this region of the world. Fortunately, most of the art from these distant islands finds buyers at a lower price. You can buy small sculptures for less than 10,000 euros. Everyday objects – clubs, paddles, offering bowls, hooks, axes and chests – are available from 2,000 euros, with prices quickly rising for finely crafted pieces. To buy a beautiful moai, a male effigy from Easter Island, on the other hand, you will have to pay several tens of thousands of euros.
Choose gallery owners with a street-level presence
Even more confidential are the arts of the American Indians and the Inuit. Very high-quality objects are legion, such as these kachina dolls of the Hopi Indians with shimmering colors – between 3,000 and 10,000 euros -, or these small sculptures in walrus ivory of the Inuit offered in a wide range of prices, very old pieces can however reach high amounts.
If you are considering buying primitive art without being an expert, avoid sales on generalist websites and between individuals. It is essential to go through a gallery with a street-level presence – in Paris, they are mainly located in the 6th arrondissement – or buy at an auction in the presence of a specialist. You will avoid disappointments.
You can also take advantage of the “Parcours des mondes” from September 10 to 15 to train your eye (information on Worlds-path.com). Strolling through the art galleries of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, near the Seine, you will discover the arts of Africa, Oceania, Asia and the Americas. This event brings together around sixty participants, with French gallery owners welcoming their counterparts from all over the world. It allows you to see and buy ancient Inuit masks and objects, sculptures and everyday objects from Africa and Asia, kachina dolls, etc. The price range is wide, from 1,000 euros to several hundred thousand euros, which appeals to beginners as well as seasoned collectors and major museums.