Friction Oracle - Kuba - DR Congo

Frictional zoomorphic oracle – Kuba – Democratic Republic of the Congo

A rare divination object in which gesture, sound, and sculpture enter into dialogue with the invisible.

This Kuba friction oracle, carved in a stylized animal form, belongs to a particularly rare and poorly documented body, reserved for divinatory practices and ritual consultations. Far from the Kuba sculptures most well known (cups, masks, prestige figures), this type of object bears witness to a discreet ritual knowledge, transmitted within restricted circles.

The compact silhouette of the animal, standing on four powerful legs, evokes stability, rootedness, and vigilance. The elongated body is rhythmically punctuated by a finely incised geometric pattern, typical of Kuba aesthetics, consisting of chevrons, lines, and repetitive motifs bearing meaning. These motifs are never merely decorative: they structure the surface and participate in the symbolic reading of the object.

Friction-based oracles were activated by the rubbing of a movable element (often today missing or separated), producing a dry, repetitive sound. This sound served as the basis for interpretation: answers to the questions asked, spiritual diagnostics, collective or individual decisions. The object thus became a mediator, an interface between the visible world and the invisible forces.

The ancient patina, dense and nuanced, bears witness to prolonged handling and real use. The areas polished by contact contrast with the more matte parts, revealing a reading of time and ritual inscribed in the very material.

The Kuba oracles of this typology are extremely rare on the market, and even more so when they preserve a legible zoomorphic form, a complete decoration, and an authentic patina. This piece thus stands as an object of knowledge, at the crossroads of art, ritual, and Kuba symbolic thought.

Introduction to our expertise firm

Based in Belgium, our appraisal and sales house specializes in African art and ethnography. A leading seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we benefit from a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with an almost 100% satisfaction rate.

We regularly assist with liquidations, estates, and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is designed to be rigorous, transparent and accessible, with sales often offered without a reserve price.

Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.

Shipping insured within 24 hours, with careful packaging, insurance, and tracking.
Contact 7 days a week: we remain available for any questions or requests for additional information.