Janiform magical figure "kabeja" ·  D. R. Congo, Luba · ID: 3033272

Description

wood, slightly encrusted dark brown patina, two nearly identical figures, male and female, joined back-to-back, cavity on top of their heads for insertion of magical substances, min. dam., missing parts (fragmentary leg zone), cracks, on wooden base;
“kabeja” figures are seen as visual icon of the primordial couple, the founders of the society. They are owned by the clan head known as the “fumu mwela”. “Kabeja” figures are presented at clan meetings led by the chief. They were used by individuals for multiple purposes: to ensure good relationship with primordial ancestors, to bring fertility and to protect against evil forces.

Comparing literature

Felix, Marc L., 100 Peoples of Zaire and their Sculpture, Brüssel 1987, p. 35, ill. 5