작품 상세

Carved wood. Dimensions: 25 × 7 cm. This ritual sculpture exhibits the characteristic formal features of Songye art, with a prominent mouth, triangular nose, and pronounced facial incisions that reinforce its symbolic expressiveness. It is a protective object of the nkisi type, conceived as a mediator between the human and spiritual worlds, used to safeguard individuals, families, or communities against adverse forces. The magical charge, usually materialized by a horn or receptacle located on the top of the head, has been removed, leaving the piece desecrated and ritually deactivated—a common occurrence with objects later destined for collections. The Songye, originally from the Shaba region, maintain close historical and cultural ties with the Luba, with whom they share common ancestors and related religious traditions. Their power sculptures occupy a prominent place within African art due to the intensity of their formal language and the depth of their symbolic function. From the Putteneers Collection, this piece is a representative example of mid-20th-century Songye ritual sculpture. Lot in international warehouse (within the EU). Intra-EU shipping: no import duties apply within the EU. An export permit from the country of origin may be required.