Standing figure ·  D. R. Congo, Kuyu · ID: 3032523

Description

wood, encrusted matt patina, polychrome paint, the upper part of the body coated with raised scarification marks, cap-like headgear with two horn-shaped projections, rest., dam., missing parts (feet), cracks, insect caused damage, on base;
the western Kuyu compare their chief with a panther, and initiation ceremonies teach the secrets of the animal’s powers. Among the eastern Kuyu the serpent “ebongo” is the focus of initiation (“djo”), and his ancestors and offspring are represented in the carved wooden heads that are best-known form of Kuyu sculpture. Kuyu figures are far less common than heads.

Comparing literature

Nevermann, Hans, Trowell, Margaret, Afrika und Ozeanien, München o.J., p. 96 Vogel, Susan, For spirits and kings, African Art from the Paul and Ruth Tishman Collection, New York 1981, p. 197