Power figure "biteki" · D. R. Congo, Teke · ID: 3035863
Eduard Hess, Oberwil, Switzerland
Description
wood, brown patina, charged with a heavy spherical package with magical contents, wrapped in fabric which is fixed by plant fibre cord, bearded head of characteristic form with hat-shaped coiffure (“mpani”), encrusted with clay, slightly dam., abrasion of paint (fabric), acrylic base;
these figures contain their magical power in a cylindrical package around their body, called “bilongo”, which holds the special ingredients designed according to the needs of the person in question. The Teke believe that magical wisdom can be swallowed and preserved in the stomach. Figures supposed to act magically are called “biteki”, while ancestor figures are called “buti”. Protective and magical figures “biteki” are used against sleeping sickness and other illnesses.