Reliquary Doll - Bwende - DR Congo
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 200 - € 250
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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 wooden carved 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 stance, expressive features, and a visible tension in their posture. Some feature an open mouth showing carved teeth, hands resting on the belly or directed forward, in a gesture that can evoke speech, warning, or invocation. The volumes are compact, powerful, and convey a will 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 during important decisions, protection rites, or intercession requests. The sculpture acts as a mediator between the visible world and the invisible, ensuring balance and the continuity of the lineage. Through their expressive intensity and symbolic force, Bwende reliquaries testify to a worldview in which the ancestors remain actively present in the lives of the living.
Introduction to 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 history of several hundred sales with a nearly 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 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 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 wooden carved 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 stance, expressive features, and a visible tension in their posture. Some feature an open mouth showing carved teeth, hands resting on the belly or directed forward, in a gesture that can evoke speech, warning, or invocation. The volumes are compact, powerful, and convey a will 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 during important decisions, protection rites, or intercession requests. The sculpture acts as a mediator between the visible world and the invisible, ensuring balance and the continuity of the lineage. Through their expressive intensity and symbolic force, Bwende reliquaries testify to a worldview in which the ancestors remain actively present in the lives of the living.
Introduction to 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 history of several hundred sales with a nearly 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 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 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
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Height
45 cm
Width
1 cm
Depth
1 cm
Weight
1 g
Provenance
Private collection
Sold by
