This image of power comes from the Bembe people from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Bembe are strongly connected to their ancestors and believe that they play an important role in the lives of the living. These wooden figures were consecrated by a spiritual healer (nganga) and used to make contact with the ancestors through offerings.
This particular object shows similarities with the power statues of the Teke, which reflects their close cultural interaction. The statue has somewhat movable arms. It has textile around the torso and four seed pods on the front that are attached to a rope. A striking feature is the hole at the top of the head, made to be filled with spiritual substances. The eyes are inlaid with mirrors and clay is smeared around them.
Please note that this item has been cherished for many years and its vintage status may be visible in the form of (light) wear, patina or other age-related characteristics. We believe that these imperfections add to the charm and authenticity of the item. It has a fracture at the base (see photo) and a crack in the back of the head. The mirror inlay of one of the eyes has come loose. The statue can stand on its own, but is a bit unstable.
