Janiform magical figure "kabeja" ·  D. R. Congo, Hemba · ID: 3036504

Description

wood, shiny brown patina, carved back to back, a package of magical mass sewn in fabric on top of the head, min. dam., cracks, small missing parts, base;
“kabeja” figures represent one of the most important theme in the art of the Hemba, and one of the most redoubtable spiritual entities invoked in magic and religious practice. It is seen as visual icon of the primordial couple, founders of the society. They are owned by the clan head known as the “fumu mwela”. Among the Hemba there are secret societies called “bukazanzi” for men and “bukibilo” for the women that serve to balance the power of the clan chief.