Holo enthronement statuette, DRC - Lot 125

Holo enthronement statuette, DRC In the Kwilu-Kwango region, several groups, some from Angola, mingled and came under the influence of the Kongo Kingdom. Holo sculpture is thus particularly influenced by that of its many neighbors, including the Yakas. Enthronement statuettes were used for rites of passage, during which young girls were sometimes carried, or to honor chiefs. Dark, lustrous patina, desiccation cracks 32 x 7 cm Located in the Democratic Republic of Congo between the Yaka and Tchokwé peoples of Angola, the small Holo ethnic group migrated from the Angolan coast to settle near the banks of the Kwango River. They earn their livelihood from hunting and farming. Neighboring ethnic groups, such as the Suku and Yaka, have influenced their traditional sculptures. The Holo produced helmet masks and prestige objects for the ruling elite. The Holo also used statuettes to guard against the influence of evil spirits, including the moon and the rainbow. These statues were placed near dwellings as protection against lightning. Ref.: "Afrique" Coll. Sargos; "Chokwe and their Bantu Neighbours" M.L. Rodrigues de Areia (p.110); "M.L. Félix "100 people of Zaïre and their sculpture".