Metoko or Yela statuette, DRC - Lot 81

Metoko or Yela statuette, DRC African art of the forest tribes This Metoko figure standing on a pedestal is similar to Lengola productions. A geometric head surmounting a rectilinear bust with splayed limbs forms a highly stylized figure. Mottled patina, red pigment residue 31 x 11 cm This male cult effigy, which may have been associated with funerary rites and then placed on tombs, comes from the Metoko and Lengola, located in the center of the Congolese basin between the Lomami and Lualaba rivers, primary forest peoples dedicated to the worship of a single God, a monotheism rare in Africa. Their society, the Bukota, welcoming both men and women, is the equivalent of the Bwami association of the Lega. Their sculptures, subject to the influence of neighboring Mbole, Lega and Binja, played a role in initiation, funeral and circumcision ceremonies, and were then placed on the graves of high-level initiates. Each of these figures had a name and an educational meaning, as in the Lega traditions. Sources: "Art and Life in Africa" C.D.Roy ; "Fleuve Congo" F. Neyt