Staff "mvwala"

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Description

wood, shiny blackish brown patina, straight shaft with three knobs arranged with regular space inbetween, completely decorated with geometrical incisions, crowned by a seated, female figure with elaborate carved coiffure, min. dam., fissures, minor missing parts, slight traces of abrasion, on base;
the chief’s staff “mvwala” was a mean of communication and a symbol of legitimacy connecting the living people with their ancestors. At foundation rites of villages the staff and a white rooster played the key role in the communication with the deceased and their power.
The female figure depicts the founder or ancestral mother of the clan. She is depicted in a kneeling position, a pose that bears reference to obedience and respect.

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Comparing literature

Felix, Marc L. (ed.), Kongo Kingdom Art, China 2003, p. 266 Tollebeek, Jo (ed.), Mayombe, Tielt 2010, p. 156, ill. 97

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