Standing female figure "kaponya" or "hamba"

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Description

wood, pigments,
According to Bastin, the term “kaponya” (pl. “tuponya”) is the generic name for a figurative sculpture. In order to become a “hamba” (pl. “mahamba”), a figure has to be consecrated by a ritual specialist or healer “mbuki”.

The term “hamba” in its primary interpretation refers to ancestor and nature spirits, sometimes called tutelary spirits, that mediate between God (“kalunga” or “nzambi”) and man.

Figures “mahamba” are primarily used in connection with fertility, healing or as hunting spells. They may belong to the community or to individuals. In any case, they must receive regular offerings so that they provide their help and support.

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Comparing literature

Petridis, Constantine, Art and Power in the Central African Savanna, Brussels 2008, p. 96 ff.

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