Statue - Bwaka Ubangi - DR Congo

The Mbaka (or Bwaka) are an ethnic group mainly located in the southwest of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the northwest of Angola, in the forested and rural regions of the Cuvette. Their sculptural art centers on symbolic statuary, which includes human figures and representations of spirits or supernatural powers. Mbaka statuary is primarily used in spiritual rituals and rites of passage, serving as intermediaries between the visible and invisible worlds.

Historically, among the Ngbaka of the western Ubangi, anthropomorphic statuary could be associated with domestic cult devices and ndábà rites; several sources mention figures sometimes kept in pairs, representing the mythical hero Sètò and his sister-wife Nàbo. In this logic, and subject to careful verification (since Ubangi attributions require caution), the presented specimen would very likely correspond to the male character, often identified with Sètò in the literature (Grootaers, Meurant, Burssens, Henrix).

Oversized heads: faces are often disproportionate to the body, highlighting the head's importance as the center of wisdom and spiritual communication.

Bulging eyes: the eyes are sometimes depicted in an exaggerated way, with circular or raised shapes, symbolizing spiritual vision and the ability to perceive invisible worlds.

Simplified bodies: the rest of the body can be depicted with less detail, but often with symbolic gestures or postures that are tied to specific rituals.

Geometric motifs: some sculptures feature geometric patterns that may represent natural elements or spiritual forces.

Mbaka/Bwaka sculptures have multiple functions in traditional society: they are used in initiation rites, healing, protection, and funeral ceremonies. These works are not merely aesthetic objects, but spiritual channels that allow communication with the ancestors, protect the community, and maintain spiritual balance.

Initiation rituals: during initiation rites, statues can be used to represent ancestors or tutelary spirits, guiding young men and women in their transition to adulthood. These statues are also symbols of wisdom and spiritual power that must be respected.

Healing rituals: the carved figures can be used in ritual healing contexts, especially by traditional healers. These statues are believed to have the capacity to protect against disease, to ward off evil spirits, and to bring physical and spiritual balance.

Funerals and ancestral rites: in funeral ceremonies, the Mbaka/Bwaka statues are used to honor the deceased and to ensure their passage to the afterlife. They are often arranged around tombs or placed in sacred spaces to maintain the connection with the ancestors.

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