Information
Hardwood with a natural coating
H 12 cm
Magic figure.
These Kongo sculptures, as with those made by the Teke and Yaka people, represent magic figures used for individual protection. Their size can vary from 7.5cm to 35cm. They were associated with other similar sculptures, placed in family shrines located on the boundary of each village. These magic figures’ main characteristics are: a head covered by an original hat, a subtle face, the absence of arms, slightly bent legs, no base, and a receptacle on its stomach. Sometimes, the wood’s surface is covered with traces of whitish kaolin or Tukula dust, a red mixture made with blend of fat and sawdust.The idol’s packaging was the work of sorcerer who inserted several magic substances into the receptacle specifically positioned on its body to activate it. The whole content was therefore sealed with a mixture of cloth or resin.
H 12 cm
Magic figure.
These Kongo sculptures, as with those made by the Teke and Yaka people, represent magic figures used for individual protection. Their size can vary from 7.5cm to 35cm. They were associated with other similar sculptures, placed in family shrines located on the boundary of each village. These magic figures’ main characteristics are: a head covered by an original hat, a subtle face, the absence of arms, slightly bent legs, no base, and a receptacle on its stomach. Sometimes, the wood’s surface is covered with traces of whitish kaolin or Tukula dust, a red mixture made with blend of fat and sawdust.The idol’s packaging was the work of sorcerer who inserted several magic substances into the receptacle specifically positioned on its body to activate it. The whole content was therefore sealed with a mixture of cloth or resin.
Provenance
- Former Paolo Morigi collection (Lugano) (Morigi inventory label num. 144);
- Former private collection (Lugano);
- Former private collection (Lugano);
Literature
- LEHUARD RAOUL "Statuaire du Stanley-Pool" Villiers-le-Bel 1974;
- LEHUARD RAOUL “Art Bakongo: le centre de style” Arnouville, France 1989, volume II°, pag. 423;
- LEHUARD RAOUL “Art Bakongo: le centre de style” Arnouville, France 1989, volume II°, pag. 423;
Condition report
To request a Condition Report, please contact arteafricana@finarte.it
The department will provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that what Finarte declares with respect to the state of conservation of the objects corresponds only to a qualified opinion and that we are not professional conservators or restorers.
We urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. We always suggest prospective buyers to inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition during the exhibition days as indicated in the catalog.