Africa | Democratic Republic of the Congo
Ngbaka figure
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Ubangi region
Northern Democratic Republic of the Congo
Early 20th century
Carved wood, beads
Height: 24 cm – 9 ½ in.
Provenance
Ex collection William Brill (1918-2003), New York
Ex collection John Dintenfass, Paris, acquired from the above
Ex collection Leridon, Paris
Ngbaka figure 24 cm / Galerie Flak
Price: on request
This figure is a classic example of ancient Ubangi art. These statuettes were used for healing, protection, and divination purposes. The face, with its stylized features and magnetic red beaded eyes, combined with the geometric, almost cubist construction, conveys a profound sense of power and poetry.
According to G. Crabbeck (see Les Gbwaka in the "Bulletin des juridictions indigènes et du droit coutumier congolais," 1943), carved figures were imbued with power (bekimi) and were akin to fetishes.
According to G. Crabbeck (see Les Gbwaka in the "Bulletin des juridictions indigènes et du droit coutumier congolais," 1943), carved figures were imbued with power (bekimi) and were akin to fetishes.
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