Janiform magical figure "kabeja" · D. R. Congo, Luba · ID: 3035383
Michel Gaud, Saint Tropez, France
Description
wood, slightly shiny dark brown patina, two identical formed figures, arranged back to back, funnel-shaped superstructure for insertion of magical substances, min. dam., cracks, small missing parts, slight traces of abrasion, socle;
“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.
The object Janiform magical figure “kabeja” with the object ID 3035383 was last part of the auction 74th tribal art auction at September 7, 2013 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 367.
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Comparing literature
Roberts, Mary Nooter, Memory, New York 1996, ill. 103