Standing female figure ·  D. R. Congo, Ngombe · ID: 3042068

Description

light brown wood, slightly shiny patina, blackened in parts, round head with pierced pupils, the navel accentuated by brass tag and incised scarification marks, old label at the left foot “Trouve village (unreadable) territoire de Kungu Mission de Bamanya”, another one at the right foot “62”, rep. (breakage right foot), small missing parts through insect caused damage, cracks, traces of abrasion, base;
since 1870 the Ngombe live in various areas in the Northeastern part of Zaire, between the rivers Ubangi and Zaire. Their art shows a big resemblance with their neighbours, the Ngbandi, Bwaka, Togbo and Ngala, so that a clear distinction is difficult. The few figures known from the Ngombe were used by the diviner “bendo” before the hunt.

Comparing literature

Pecci, Joaquin, Femina, Brussels 2006, ill. 23