Standing power figure "biteki" ·  D. R. Congo, Teke · ID: 3037645

Description

wood, dark brown patina, charged with a heavy package with magical contents, wrapped in fabric, bearded head of characteristic form with hat-shaped coiffure (“mpani”), min. dam., slight traces of abrasion, base;
these figures contain their magical power in a cylindrical package around their body, called “bilongo”, which holds the special ingredients designed according to the needs of the person in question. The Teke believe that magical wisdom can be swallowed and preserved in the stomach.

Comparing literature

Bateke, Peintres et sculpteurs d'Afrique Centrale, Paris 1998, p. 154