Amulet Figure

Songye, Democratic Republic of Congo
19th c.

Provenance: Josef Herman collection, UK

Published: Fagg, William, “Miniature Wood Carvings of Africa, 1970, fig. 91

This miniature Songye figure was most likely a personal protective figure; although small figures like this example were also hung on larger village fetishes to add extra power.  This figure is well carved in classic Kelebwa style; with numerous cavities for ‘bilongo’ material. The head, stomach and arm were all charged with this magical material created by the village Nganga (shaman). The patina is deep from age and handling; the duiker horn on top of the head is original to the piece and was used as a receptacle for magical substances.

Akua mma Doll

Ashanti, Ghana
Early 20th c.

Previous Collection: James Willis, CA.

Akua mma dolls are known for their long neck, round face, high forehead, and small mouth. These characteristics are synonymous with Ashanti ideals of beauty and were carried by expectant mothers in order to encourage their unborn child to be beautiful. This example is in great condition and exhibits a beautiful dark brown patina, suggesting it was carried and used often. The head is large and circular, the face expertly carved with deeply cast eyes that have a piercing gaze.  There is also some facial scarring. The long-stylized neck down to the arms of the sculpture is perfectly carved.  Old glass European trade beads are draped around the figures neck and arms.

Power Figure

Songye, Dem. Rep. of Congo
Early 20th Century

Old American collection

Belief in witchcraft and sorcery was the basis for the creation of many sculptures, which acted as protective devices, in the Congo regions. These figures are more commonly known as power figures or fetishes. Songye figures are characterized by enlarged, sometimes hollow craniums and hands placed over the stomach, where the magical substance would be contained. This figure is beautifully carved with an extremely expressive face. The wood is very oxidized, giving off a dark brown encrusted patina. Multiple metal tacks have been pounded into the figure’s head and face. This is consistent with Songye power figures. The act of pounding metal nails into the sculpture was supposed to help release its magical properties. The duiker horn on top of its head is original to the piece and was used as a receptacle for magical substances.

Fetish Figure

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

Provenance: George Ortiz collection, Switzerland.
Private American collection, acquired in the 1990’s

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 batik 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.

Passport mask, ma go

Dan, Liberia
Early 20th c

Previous Collection: Dr. Marc Smalle, South Africa, acquired in the 1970’s. Then by descent to family member.

This is a very fine passport mask; its face is less naturalistic and more abstract in conception.  This example is carved from very hard wood with a wonderful rich blackened patina from decades of handling.  In its mouth, there are two thin metal teeth.