What's it worth? Appraisal of carved Congolese tusk

 Marty asks:

I got this from my Granparents. They were missionaries in the Congo in the 1920’s & 1930’s. They brought back many pieces that are both ivory and wood. All the items appear to be hand carved and are probably done by the natives where they preached.
 
The item is approx 21” long. Starting at the large end is a carved alligator followed by 7 elephants with trunks extended. They all have a black spot on the eyes. It appears to be a tusk since it has a curve in it.
 
Any info on the value of this item would be greatly appreciated. We have many more carved ivory & wood from the Congo & also Haiti form the 1920’s thru the 1940”s
 
Please email us at this email address with the info.
 
Thanks
 
Marty

AW says: That’s quite  a work of art, and Congolese carved ivory is very sought after. Although there is a ban on new ivory, historical ivory is still valuable.

Circa turn of the 20th century.

Retail value: $3,500

Wholesale: $800-$1,200

Quick sale: An item like this should not have to suffer a quick sale.

Keywords  = Congo, Ivory, tusk, elephant parade,