Quadruped ·  D. R. Congo, Yaka/Suku/Lele · ID: 3036210

Description

light wood, partly encrusted dark patina, probably depicting a warthog, three drilled holes in the body, collar made from plaited plant fibres, min. dam., cracks, slight traces of abrasion;
presumably a friction oracle “itombwa”, regarded as infallible divinatory instrument; friction oracles were used to mediate between diviners and omniscient nature spirits in order to determine the cause of illness and appropriate courses of treatment and to expose dishonesty.