Zemanek-Münster

Janus headed power figure ·  D. R. Congo, Bembe (Eastern) · ID: 3033818

not available anymore
Provenance
Tom Peter, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Size
H: 27,5 cm
H: 10.8 inch

Description

wood, dark brown patina, red pigment, kaolin, two nearly identical modelled mask faces on conical-shaped base, each framed by a grass fibre cuff, min. dam., traces of abrasion, on wooden base;
the sculpture presumably represents “kalunga”, one of the aquatic spirits “miha”. The creation of such a figure was ordered by the soothsayer in order to counteract misfortune, which the spirit might inflict on the people. “Miha” received ritual chicken sacrifices to keep him well-disposed.


The object Janus headed power figure with the object ID 3033818 was last part of the auction 71st tribal art auction at November 24, 2012 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 363.

You can find more Figures and other popular object types on our related topic pages. You may also be interested in our page on African art.


Comparing literature

Biebuyck, Daniel P., Statuary from the pre-Bembe hunters, Tervuren 1981, p. 148 ff.


Subscribe to our newsletter

Join over 10,000 tribal art collectors. Don't miss out on upcoming news and auctions.

Subscribe today