Standing Diviner’s Figure
Songye, Democratic Republic of Congo
Early 20th c
Provenance: Old American collection, acquired in the 1960’s. Drs. Jean and Noble Endicott, NY.
Owned by chiefs and diviners, this standing figure bearing a bowl was filled with sacred materials and was used by diviners as oracles and receptacles for communicating with the spirit world. This figure is well carved, its open mouth with exposed teeth, commands attention. Its profile reveals the sculpture’s cubist dynamism; which is defined by its strong bent legs and oversized feet. The patina is deep and encrusted from age and handling. The small horn on top of the head is original to the piece.
Standing Diviner’s Figure
Songye, Democratic Republic of Congo
Early 20th c
Provenance: Old American collection, acquired in the 1960’s. Drs. Jean and Noble Endicott, NY.
Owned by chiefs and diviners, this standing figure bearing a bowl was filled with sacred materials and was used by diviners as oracles and receptacles for communicating with the spirit world. This figure is well carved, its open mouth with exposed teeth, commands attention. Its profile reveals the sculpture’s cubist dynamism; which is defined by its strong bent legs and oversized feet. The patina is deep and encrusted from age and handling. The small horn on top of the head is original to the piece.