Small protective figure of the "bwanga bwa bwimpe" cult · D. R. Congo, Lulua · ID: 3042730
Günther Filla, Bochum, Germany
Description
wood, encrusted brown patina, remains of red pigment, high headgear, neck plait, min. dam., missing parts through insect caused damage, base.
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 protective figure of the “bwanga bwa bwimpe” cult with the object ID 3042730 was last part of the auction 87th Tribal Art Auction at November 11, 2017 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house. The object with the lot number 113 achieved a sales price of EUR 650.
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