Power figure "buti" ·  R. D. Congo, Teke · ID: 3033514

Description

wood, matt brown patina, arms and lower part of the body wrapped with cotton fabric, which is fixed by cord material, small thatchets with inserted feathers attached to the two sides, small openings in breast and head for insertion of magical mass, the right foot inscribed with white paint on the inside: “Ten Houten”, slightly dam. (nose, ears), cracks, on plate;
the presence of bird feathers refers to the power that the master of this figure had to counter enemies, or pursue them through the air. The “buti” charms are equally numerous and diverse. Their employ encompasses all aspects of life: divination, protection against sorcery and negative turns of fate, acquisition of riches or a particular power, wreaking vengeance, etc.

Exposition

Gerardus van der Leeuw Museum, Groningen, The Netherlands, 1970 -1996