Standing male power figure
Description
wood, greyish brown patina, remains of black paint and red pigment (back of the head), large cavity in the head and small drillings in ears and navel, each for insertion of magical substances, slightly dam., crack (right side of the head), missing parts through insect caused damage (back- and underside of the base), abrasion of paint, block-like base;
the Tetela are a group of disparate peoples who had a common ancestor. Thus, it is not surprising that their sculpture reflects different sources of inspiration, borrowed from different neighbouring groups. The northern group had all the characteristics of forest peoples, while the southerners were savanna peoples. Statuary of the south emulates or interprets styles of the northern Songe, with whom they were in constant conflict yet had exchanges. Present figure reminding of the “nkisi” figures of the Songe.