Standing male figure ·  D. R. Congo, Mbole/Yela · ID: 3041940

Description

wood, greyish brown patina, schematized body, reduced facial features, the flat head rounded on top and carved with a deep groove , slightly dam., minor missing parts (feet), traces of insect caused damage backside, base;
present figure might be linked to the therapeuthic society, because it does not have the elaboration of “lilwa”-related figures. All religious and social life of the Mbole is focused on the “lilwa” society. Their most important sculpture are “okifa”, the “hanged” figures, for death by hanging plays an important role in Mbole society.

Comparing literature

Felix, Marc L., 100 Peoples of Zaire and their Sculpture, Brussels 1987, p. 104 f.