Standing female figure · D. R. Congo, Pende/Mbala · ID: 3034500
Christie’s Amsterdam, 7 December 1998, lot 171
Description
wood, entirely dyed with red pigment, black paint at the coiffure, unusual detail: two animal horns inserted into the head, two-parted crested coiffure with neck lobe, scarification marks on nose bridge, cheeks and belly, dam., rep. (a crack cramped by metal bands backside, at the tailbone as well), missing parts through insect caused damage (both feet and legs to the front, left breast, coiffure), cracks, socle;
concerning the statuary, Pende sculptors prefered feminine shapes in relation with the belief that women are more successful in obedience and concentration. These statues are to be found in the dwelling of the chief, towards the back. Their role is to protect him, as a kind of supernatural guardian angel. The self-confident posture of present figure (broad stand, hands on the belly, teeth-revealing mouth) definitely causes a kind of threatening, scaring effect. Neither the chief nor his wife have the right to enter the room. The “room minister”, appointed by the chief, is charged with the care and the conservation of these sculptures.
Comparing literature
Pende, Collection J. M. Desaive et Ch. Laeremans, Brüssel 2009, p. 17