Power figure · D. R. Congo, Teke · ID: 3048765
not available anymore
Provenance
Werner Zintl, Worms, Germany (2002)Size
H: 36 cm
H: 14.2 inch
Description
wood, pigments, mass, fabric, copper wire, base
The Teke make a disctinction between the spirits of ancestors, which are present in “nkira” figures, and anonymous spirits, which inhabit “buti” figures.
It is not normally possible to classify a figure on the basis of its appearance. The difference between “nkira” and “buti” depends both on the components used and on the context in which the figure is used.
“Buti” figures were used for a wide range of purposes such as healing, protection against spells, ensuring good fortune in hunting or trading, the rapid acquisition of wealth or revenge.
Comparing literature
Grootaers, Jan-Lodewijk & Ineke Eisenburger (ed.), Forms of Wonderment, Vol. II, Berg en Dal 2002, p. 520