Small power figure · D. R. Congo, Lulua · ID: 3042266
German Private Collection
Description
wood, dark brown patina, remains of pigments, fine and elaborate work of carving, holding a cup originally filled with white chalk in the left hand, min. dam., small missing parts, slight traces of abrasion, base;
used by a cult called “bwanga bwa bwimpe”. The “bwimpe” cult was meant first and foremost to safeguard and foster the fertility of a young mother and the beauty and health of a young child or newborn. The sculptures also assisted in the treatment of children with skin diseases, eye infections, and other health problems. More generally they were used to ward off evildoers and sorcerers, to favour hunters and farmers, and to protect travellers.
The object Small power figure with the object ID 3042266 was last part of the auction 86th Tribal Art Auction at May 27, 2017 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 434.
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