Reliquary Doll - Bwende - DR Congo
07
days
14
hours
45
minutes
22
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 170 - € 200
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Bwende reliquary doll, from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, from a private collection, 45 cm high, excellent condition.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
The Bwende reliquary, originating from the Congo Basin region, is a ritual work associated with the Kongo peoples, and more specifically with the Bwende groups. It is generally a carved wooden figure placed atop a receptacle containing ancestral relics, such as bones or symbolic fragments linked to the deceased. These objects are not mere decorative sculptures; they embody the presence and protection of the ancestors within the community.
Bwende figures are often distinguished by a frontal posture, expressive features, and a visible tension in their stance. Some display an open mouth revealing sculpted teeth, hands placed on the abdomen or directed forward, in a gesture that can evoke speech, warning, or invocation. The volumes are compact, powerful, and convey a willingness to assert the spiritual authority of the figure.
The reliquary plays a central role in practices related to the cult of ancestors. It is consulted for important decisions, during protection rites, or when seeking intercession. The sculpture acts as a mediator between the visible and invisible worlds, ensuring the balance and continuity of the lineage. Through their expressive intensity and symbolic force, the Bwende reliquaries reflect a worldview in which the ancestors remain actively present in the lives of the living.
Presentation of our house of expertise
Based in Belgium, our house of expertise and sales specializes in African art and ethnography. A leading seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with nearly 100% customer satisfaction.
We regularly assist with liquidations, successions, and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent, and accessible, with many sales offered without a reserve price.
Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.
Shipping guaranteed 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.
The Bwende reliquary, originating from the Congo Basin region, is a ritual work associated with the Kongo peoples, and more specifically with the Bwende groups. It is generally a carved wooden figure placed atop a receptacle containing ancestral relics, such as bones or symbolic fragments linked to the deceased. These objects are not mere decorative sculptures; they embody the presence and protection of the ancestors within the community.
Bwende figures are often distinguished by a frontal posture, expressive features, and a visible tension in their stance. Some display an open mouth revealing sculpted teeth, hands placed on the abdomen or directed forward, in a gesture that can evoke speech, warning, or invocation. The volumes are compact, powerful, and convey a willingness to assert the spiritual authority of the figure.
The reliquary plays a central role in practices related to the cult of ancestors. It is consulted for important decisions, during protection rites, or when seeking intercession. The sculpture acts as a mediator between the visible and invisible worlds, ensuring the balance and continuity of the lineage. Through their expressive intensity and symbolic force, the Bwende reliquaries reflect a worldview in which the ancestors remain actively present in the lives of the living.
Presentation of our house of expertise
Based in Belgium, our house of expertise and sales specializes in African art and ethnography. A leading seller on Catawiki for more than 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with nearly 100% customer satisfaction.
We regularly assist with liquidations, successions, and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent, and accessible, with many sales offered without a reserve price.
Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.
Shipping guaranteed 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.
Details
Indigenous object name
Reliquary Doll
Ethnic group/ culture
Bwende
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Mid 20th century
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Height
45 cm
Width
1 cm
Depth
1 cm
Weight
1 g
Provenance
Private collection
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