Lot n° 61
Estimation :
250 - 350
EUR
Female Boa figure, DRC ex Zaire - Lot 61
Female Boa figure, DRC ex Zaire
Statuette featuring a stylized face softened by a diadem-like headdress, and ears reminiscent of those on a Bavobongo mask.
The superimposed spherical volumes, indicating the legs, form a powerful contrast with the angular protrusions of the head and bust, on which the figure's hands rest.
Mutilations and cracks.
Shaded lustre patina
41 x 12 cm
Close relatives of the Mangbetu and Zande, the Boa inhabit the savannah in the north of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Their anthropomorphic figures were undoubtedly used as part of rites to combat witchcraft in Ndoki society. They are famous for their "bavobongo" mask, with its oversized ears perforated like the earflaps of the Eastern Boa. It gave the wearer an impressive appearance, accentuated by the contrasting colors. The African Boa kpongadomba mask was commissioned by the kumu chief, who offered it to the most valiant warrior. It was then kept in his wife's hut. Since the pacification of the Uele region, some Boa have used the masks to educate children.
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