Three miniature figures · D. R. Congo, Yaka · ID: 3034119
sold
EUR 2,200
Provenance
a) Helmut Zake, Heidelberg, Germanyb) Antonio Fiacco, Zurich, Switzerland
Wolfgang Nerlich, Munich, Germany
Description
wood, dark brown or blackish patina, a) standing male power figure, h: 12 cm, the magical ingredients are kept in a pouch with inserted feathers attached to the left arm, slightly dam., socle; b) “mbwoolo” figure, h: 16,5 cm, a spirally grooved cylindrical body without limbs, metal socle; c) “mbwoolo” figure with only one leg, the body closely wrapped in fabric, the leg in cord material, drilled holes, metal socle;
“mbwoolo” figures were used for healing illnesses. A spiral-shaped torso symbolises bellyache or a general feeling of malady.
Comparing literature
Grootaers, J.-L., Eisenburger, I. (ed.), Forms of Wonderment, Vol. II, 2002, p. 532