Description:

Central Africa, Gabon or Congo, Kota (Bakota) peoples, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. An abstract anthropomorphic figure known as a mbulu-ngulu, a reliquary guardian, made from wood and covered with thin brass panels that contain incised and stippled decorations. The lower body of the figure is comprised of an angular wooden stem / base - the shoulder covered with brass panels, serving as a neck for the head and flared headdress - the side flanges which symbolize elephant ears. Reliquaries like this example are important ritual components for the Kota peoples as they would be placed atop a box containing the bones of their ancestors as a gesture of respect Size: 10" L x 2" W x 24" H (25.4 cm x 5.1 cm x 61 cm); 25.25" H (64.1 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Richard S. Ravenal collection

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#174648

  • Condition: Minor surface wear to wood and brass, tiny tears and creasing to brass. Small areas of green patina and dark toning to brass and lustrous patina to wood. No repairs or restoration. Overall great condition.

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December 15, 2022 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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