Standing power figure "biteki" ·  D. R. Congo, Teke · ID: 3033331

Description

wood, partly encrusted brown patina, cylindrical trunk, rectangular cavity with remains of magical substances, the bearded head showing fine striated scarification marks, tribe-typical headgear, dam., missing parts (right foot tip), cracks, slight traces of abrasion, on wooden base;
such power figures served as patron for hunting and should protect against diseases and evil spirits. Their magical power was kept in a cylindrical package, called “bilongo”, which includes the special ingredients put together according to the needs of the person in question. The package was fixed at the abdomen because to the Teke, magical wisdom can be swallowed and preserved in the stomach.