Statue - Bwaka Ubangi - DR Congo

Mbaka (or Bwaka) are an ethnic group located mainly 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, including human figures and representations of spirits or supernatural powers. Mbaka statuary is predominantly 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 (as Ubangi attributions require prudence), the presented example would very likely correspond to the male character, often identified as Sètò in the literature (Grootaers, Meurant, Burssens, Henrix).

Oversized heads: faces are often disproportionately large relative to the body, underscoring the importance of the head as the center of wisdom and spiritual communication.

Prominent eyes: eyes are sometimes represented in an exaggerated way, with circular or relief forms, symbolizing spiritual vision and the ability to perceive invisible worlds.

Simplified bodies: the rest of the body may be depicted with less detail, but often with symbolic gestures or positions linked 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 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, particularly by traditional healers. These statues are believed to have the capacity to protect against illnesses, banish evil spirits, and bring physical and spiritual balance.

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

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