Male power figure "phuungu"
R. D. Congo, Yaka
Vendu
1 200 €
Provenance
René Rasmussen, Paris, FranceEduard Hess, Oberwil, Switzerland
Taille
H: 35,5 cm
H: 14.0 inch
Description
wood, reddish brown patina, string with nut shells and small wooden sculptures, mass remains on the back and the belly proving that the body was originally provided with much more magical substances, slightly dam., minor missing parts, cracks, base;
a “phuungu” is owned by the head of a patrilineal kin group and may pass from father to son. Its primary function is to protect against witches and other enemies and for this purpose it is often positioned on the wall near the roof supports in the interior of a dwelling.