Lot 95
Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Yaka peoples, ca. mid 20th century CE. A fine carved-wood fetish figure presenting a barrel-like body wrapped in cloth, meant to contain an offering within a carved cavity, and supported by slightly bent legs with large feet. Painted a rich hue of burnt sienna, his stylized visage features a prominent chin, full lips, a triangular nose, and large almond-shaped eyes encompassed by an incised outline, perhaps representing face paint. A crested headdress caps his ovoid head, resting above a pair of cupped ears. His chest is adorned by a petite, annular knob and painted a vibrant shade of orange, while his legs and feet have a light tan color. Size: 5" in diameter x 17" H (12.7 cm x 43.2 cm)
Fetish figures were made by a variety of cultures to fight evil spirits, heal sick family members, decide arguments, mark an important occasion or contract, or perform a variety of other tasks. These figures often show signs of use, because a priest or other holy person had to "activate" them using magical substances (like the red caked around the body of this one). What is inside the bundle? A CT scan of a similar Yaka bundle shows that it contains tacks, bamboo, bones of small animals, terracotta fragments, pebbles, a metal tube (possibly a bullet cartridge), a needle, a snail shell, an egg shell, and a seed. Without a similar scan or opening the bundle, we can only imagine what has been wrapped within this figure!
Provenance: private Arcadia, California, USA collection, acquired prior to 2000
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#162062
- Condition: Expected surface wear with some abrasions, minor nicks/chips, and light fraying to fabric. Otherwise, excellent with nice remaining pigments.
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