Chokwe maternity figure - DR Congo
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
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Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Chokwe
Material. Wood, nails
Dimensions. 33 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo; ships within 24-48h. Open.
This magnificent sculpture is a Chokwe motherhood figure, originating from the region that lies mainly between Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia. The Chokwe are worldwide renowned for the finesse and expressiveness of their carved art.
The sculpture depicts a seated woman holding a child on her knees. The seated position, often on a chair or stool, symbolizes dignity, stability, and, in many cases, a high social status or ancestral authority.
The Inlay Details: A striking feature of this piece is the use of small brass (or similar metal) nails inlaid on the forehead, chest, and the top of the coiffure. In Chokwe art, these inlays are not purely decorative; they often serve to enhance beauty, emphasize ritual scarifications, or bring a spiritual and protective dimension to the object.
The Headdress: The figure sports an elaborate and voluminous coiffure, very typical of Chokwe aesthetics, often reminiscent of the sculpted hairstyles of Mwana Pwo masks (the young woman mask). The features are finely engraved, bearing witness to the artisan's great craftsmanship.
The face shows the classic traits of the Chokwe style: a broad forehead, almond-shaped, raised eyes, and a well-defined mouth, often with a serene or grave expression.
The wood displays a dark, glossy patina, likely the result of prolonged ritual use, exposure to domestic smoke, and frequent handling, which attests to the piece’s age and the respect afforded to it.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance
Motherhood: In Chokwe society, the figure of the mother is central. These maternity sculptures are not merely representations of biology but celebrate fertility, the continuity of lineage, and the fundamental role of women in the social and clan structure.
Ancestor Worship: This type of figure was often linked to ancestor worship. They served as spiritual receptacles, helping to maintain the link between the living and the spirits of forebears, invoking their protection for the community, harvests, or children's health.
Aesthetic and Status: The attention to adornment (hairstyle, jewelry suggested by the inlays) underscores the importance given to beauty and wealth in Chokwe culture. A beautifully adorned woman is a sign of a prosperous community that respects its traditions.
This is a piece that combines technical mastery (wood sculpture and metal work) with a strong symbolic depth, typical of the apex of classic Chokwe sculpture.
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Chokwe
Material. Wood, nails
Dimensions. 33 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo; ships within 24-48h. Open.
This magnificent sculpture is a Chokwe motherhood figure, originating from the region that lies mainly between Angola, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Zambia. The Chokwe are worldwide renowned for the finesse and expressiveness of their carved art.
The sculpture depicts a seated woman holding a child on her knees. The seated position, often on a chair or stool, symbolizes dignity, stability, and, in many cases, a high social status or ancestral authority.
The Inlay Details: A striking feature of this piece is the use of small brass (or similar metal) nails inlaid on the forehead, chest, and the top of the coiffure. In Chokwe art, these inlays are not purely decorative; they often serve to enhance beauty, emphasize ritual scarifications, or bring a spiritual and protective dimension to the object.
The Headdress: The figure sports an elaborate and voluminous coiffure, very typical of Chokwe aesthetics, often reminiscent of the sculpted hairstyles of Mwana Pwo masks (the young woman mask). The features are finely engraved, bearing witness to the artisan's great craftsmanship.
The face shows the classic traits of the Chokwe style: a broad forehead, almond-shaped, raised eyes, and a well-defined mouth, often with a serene or grave expression.
The wood displays a dark, glossy patina, likely the result of prolonged ritual use, exposure to domestic smoke, and frequent handling, which attests to the piece’s age and the respect afforded to it.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance
Motherhood: In Chokwe society, the figure of the mother is central. These maternity sculptures are not merely representations of biology but celebrate fertility, the continuity of lineage, and the fundamental role of women in the social and clan structure.
Ancestor Worship: This type of figure was often linked to ancestor worship. They served as spiritual receptacles, helping to maintain the link between the living and the spirits of forebears, invoking their protection for the community, harvests, or children's health.
Aesthetic and Status: The attention to adornment (hairstyle, jewelry suggested by the inlays) underscores the importance given to beauty and wealth in Chokwe culture. A beautifully adorned woman is a sign of a prosperous community that respects its traditions.
This is a piece that combines technical mastery (wood sculpture and metal work) with a strong symbolic depth, typical of the apex of classic Chokwe sculpture.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Chokwe maternity figure
Width
33 cm
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