Figure "okifa" ·  R. D. Congo, Mbole · ID: 3035406

Description

light wood, kaolin, remains of black paint, traces of camwood powder, characteristic posture with hunched shoulders, lettered in black paint: “M. H. 1/2”, strong traces of old age and weathering, the wood spongy in parts, rep. (both arms), missing parts (both foot tips), metal socle;
Mbole have become known mainly for their “okifa” figures for the “lilwa” society, which dominates their social life. The “lilwa” is a hierarchically ranked society with “isoya” as master. “Okifa” means “hanged”. The sculpture represents either victims of the “lilwa” tribunal or victims sacrificed in order for the “lilwa” chief to reach the level of “isoya”. The other uses of “okifa” are in “lilwa” rituals where they are exposed and discussed, neutralizing criminal behaviour among new initiates, and they are displayed on the symbolic graves of the “lilwa” dignitaries. When not in use they are kept in forest huts and it is forbidden for women and children to see them.

L’objet Figure “okifa” avec l’ID d’objet 3035406 a fait partie de la dernière vente aux enchères 74th tribal art auction dans 7 septembre 2013 le Zemanek-Münster Hôtel des ventes. L’objet portant le numéro de lot 382 a atteint un prix de vente de 4 000 €.

Vous trouverez d’autres Figures et autres types d’objets populaires sur nos pages thématiques associées. Notre page sur le thème Art africain pourrait également vous intéresser.

Littérature comparée

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

Publications

van Geluwe et. al., Mongo Cultuur, Brussels 1984, p. 164, ill. 16.04

Exposition

Mongo Cultuur, de mongo: bewooners van het evenaarswoud in Zaire, Sint Niklaas, Belgium 26 August - 21 October 1984