Anthropomorphic figure "iginga"
Description
ivory, remains of brown patina, characteristic forming of face and body, typical circle ornaments with central dot, striking detail: the left arm overlong with hand up to the neck, incised scarification marks, drilled hole, abrasion of paint, base.
Such ivory sculptures belong to “bwami” members who have already attained the associations highest rank. Wether they are male, female or asexual in appearance the figurines stand for the most diverse male and female characters. All of them illustrate, positively or negatively, values and concepts that are linked with moral philosophy, worldview, social structure and etiquette of the “bwami”.
The anthropomorphic figurines, the presentation and viewing of which constitute the summit of the initiations, mainly occur in two “kindi” rites. The first rite is called “kabongia masengo”, a very secret ritual held inside the initation house, in the course of which the figurines are oiled and perfumed, while the sacred mirlitons perform secret songs. During the second rite, called “bele muno”, the “maginga” of the high-ranking “bwami” members are displayed and their meaning explained to the initiates. Following the “kusambala” rite, during which the initates are taken to a forest shack, where they stay for two days and purify themselves until they return to the village as bwami members of higher status.
The anthropomorphic ivory figures may act as signifiers of rank, marks of identity, or commemorations of ancestors. They also possess medicinal powers. They may be rubbed with sandpaper, producing a powder that may be used as a medicine.
Comparing literature
Biebuyck, Daniel P., Lega, Brussels 2002, p. 144 ff.Notices
This object is subject to CITES. Please note that it can only be sent within the European Union. At the present time export in third countries is prohibited, respectively, export licenses in third countries for objects containing or made of protected materials are only granted under stringent conditions.