Fetish Figure

Teke, Dem. Rep. of Congo
Early 20th c

Provenance: Old European collection

The Teke are famous among the surrounding tribes for the supposed efficacy of their fetish figures. This figure exhibits an elaborate fetish bundle consisting of a ball-like shaped mixture of earth and various organic medicines. It is covered in cloth and cord. Emerging from the top and bottom of the magic bundle are the figures head and conjoined legs. The figure creates an astonishing effect considering that only the head and legs are visible. The deep encrusted dark brown patina only adds more to this objects allure.