Spirit protector figure "yanda"

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Description

wood, stained middle brown patina, brass ring, yellow glass bead eyes, compact body with short limbs, supporting a large and flat head with slanting face halfes, rudimental facial features, slightly dam., cracks, abrasion of paint, base;
cult figures “yanda” belong to the “mani” secret society. They protect against disease, infertility and sorcery, and bring good luck to hunters. “Yanda” could be male, female or zoomorphic. The aestethic appearance of the figure has nothing to do with its efficacy. Crucial factors for the Azande are the sacred wood, special consecration and continued care of the figures in small shrines outside the village.

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Comparing literature

Schädler, Karl-Ferdinand, Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture, Munich 2009, p. 634 Felix, Marc L., 100 Peoples of Zaire and their Sculpture, Brussels 1987, p. 202 f.

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