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

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.

Comparing literature

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