Janiform magical figure "kabeja" · D. R. Congo, Hemba · ID: 3037522

Name: Janiform magical figure "kabeja"
SKU: 3037522
Availability: Discontinued

not available anymore

Provenance

Swiss Private Collection

Size

H: 33 cm

H: 13.0 inch

Description

wood, partly encrusted dark brown patina, two identical formed figures, arranged back to back, funnel-shaped superstructure for insertion of magical substances, rising from a circular base, min. dam., cracks, traces of abrasion and insect caused damage (base), plate;
“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.

The object Janiform magical figure “kabeja” with the object ID 3037522 was last part of the auction 78th tribal art auction at October 18, 2014 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 429.

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