Friday 28 October 2022
A sword from the Ethiopian Guard, Mehal Sefari, of Emperor Menelik II, Ethiopia, 19th...
View MoreLot 299
Description
A sword from the Ethiopian Guard, Mehal Sefari, of Emperor Menelik II, Ethiopia, 19th century, the curved steel blade etched with floral detail and inscriptions in Aramaic, with the coat of arms of the Emperor to hilt, within a stitched brown leather sheath, sword 93.2cm. long
Mehal Sefari was the Ethiopian title for the specialized units of the imperial guard during the reign of Emperor Menelik II. Active from 1850-1936, the unit grew from Menelik's personal Guard, though oral histories link it to the elite fighting unit of Atse Tewodros II under Fitawrari Gebrye. The title translates to "center campers" and alludes to the location the unit encamped in Menelik's expeditionary encampments. Some have also suggested that the unit was used to come between (mehal) battling armies of the nobility. There is however little in way of evidence to demonstrate this as the nobility rarely fought without permission from the Emperor.
Fees & VAT
Buyer's Premium
The buyer shall pay the hammer price together with a premium thereon of 26% up to £20,000 (31.2% inclusive of VAT), 25% from £20,001 - £500,000 (30% inclusive of VAT), 20% from £500,001 thereafter (24% inclusive of VAT). The premium price is subject to VAT at the standard rate.
VAT
VAT is not charged on the hammer price unless it is stated that there is 'VAT applicable on the hammer price at the end of the description. Buyer's premium is subject to VAT.(ARR) - ARTIST'S RESALE RIGHT
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Exceeding £500,000 - 0.25%
ARR is capped at £12,500
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Export of goods
Buyers intending to export goods should ascertain whether an export licence is required before bidding. Export licences are issued by Arts Council England and application forms can be obtained from its Export Licensing Unit. Details can be found on the ACE website www.artscouncil.org.uk or by phoning ACE on 020 7973 5188. The need for import licences varies from country to country and you should acquaint yourself with all relevant local requirements and provisions before bidding. The refusal of any such licences shall not permit the cancelling of any sale nor allow any delay in making full payment for the lot.
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