Standing power figure "biteki"
R. D. Congo, Teke
n'est plus disponible
Provenance
Paul Kummert, Frankfurt, GermanyTaille
H: 51 cm
H: 20.1 inch
Description
wood, dark brown patina, charged with a heavy package with magical contents, wrapped in fabric, bearded head of characteristic form with hat-shaped coiffure (“mpani”), min. dam., slight traces of abrasion, base;
these figures contain their magical power in a cylindrical package around their body, called “bilongo”, which holds the special ingredients designed according to the needs of the person in question. The Teke believe that magical wisdom can be swallowed and preserved in the stomach.