Animalier statuette - Kongo monkey - DR Congo
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 280 - € 330
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Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of Congo.
Material. Wood
Dimension. 40 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h, open.
This wooden carved statuette is a classic and powerful representation of Kongo art (from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, or the Republic of the Congo). It features a monkey, probably a chimpanzee or a gorilla, in a highly symbolic posture.
Here is a detailed analysis of this piece:
1. Symbolism and Posture
The monkey holds a special place in Kongo cosmogony. Unlike Western interpretations, it is often seen as a mediator between the world of the living and that of the ancestors or spirits.
The hand to the mouth: This pose, often called "the thinker" in other contexts, symbolizes wisdom, reflection, or sacred silence. It can also indicate that the entity is "eating" or absorbing magical substances to protect its owner.
The drum: The animal seems to hold or sits behind a drum. In Kongo culture, the drum is not just an instrument; it is a tool for communicating with the beyond. The rhythm calls the spirits.
2. Physical Characteristics and Materials
Patina: The dark, crusty yet glossy surface suggests a ritual-use patina. It results from repeated applications of organic substances (palm oil, sacrificial blood, resin) that attest to the object's age and spiritual activation.
Eyes: The use of shell fragments or white porcelain for the eyes is typical of Kongo art. The white (mpemba) evokes the realm of the dead and the statue’s ability to “see” into the invisible world.
Additional Elements: There are cords or fibers around the neck and base, as well as a small fragment (perhaps glass or a mirror) on the top of the skull. These elements were often used to seal magical charges (bilongo).
3. Function: An object of power
This type of statuette generally belongs to the category of Minkisi (plural Nkisi).
A Nkisi is a receptacle for a spiritual force. It was used by a diviner or healer (Nganga) to resolve social problems, cure illnesses, or protect against misfortune.
In summary
This Kongo monkey is a piece of protection and divination. Its gathered posture and clear eyes indicate spiritual vigilance. It was not intended for decoration but to act as an active agent in the life of the community.
Origin. Democratic Republic of Congo.
Material. Wood
Dimension. 40 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h, open.
This wooden carved statuette is a classic and powerful representation of Kongo art (from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Angola, or the Republic of the Congo). It features a monkey, probably a chimpanzee or a gorilla, in a highly symbolic posture.
Here is a detailed analysis of this piece:
1. Symbolism and Posture
The monkey holds a special place in Kongo cosmogony. Unlike Western interpretations, it is often seen as a mediator between the world of the living and that of the ancestors or spirits.
The hand to the mouth: This pose, often called "the thinker" in other contexts, symbolizes wisdom, reflection, or sacred silence. It can also indicate that the entity is "eating" or absorbing magical substances to protect its owner.
The drum: The animal seems to hold or sits behind a drum. In Kongo culture, the drum is not just an instrument; it is a tool for communicating with the beyond. The rhythm calls the spirits.
2. Physical Characteristics and Materials
Patina: The dark, crusty yet glossy surface suggests a ritual-use patina. It results from repeated applications of organic substances (palm oil, sacrificial blood, resin) that attest to the object's age and spiritual activation.
Eyes: The use of shell fragments or white porcelain for the eyes is typical of Kongo art. The white (mpemba) evokes the realm of the dead and the statue’s ability to “see” into the invisible world.
Additional Elements: There are cords or fibers around the neck and base, as well as a small fragment (perhaps glass or a mirror) on the top of the skull. These elements were often used to seal magical charges (bilongo).
3. Function: An object of power
This type of statuette generally belongs to the category of Minkisi (plural Nkisi).
A Nkisi is a receptacle for a spiritual force. It was used by a diviner or healer (Nganga) to resolve social problems, cure illnesses, or protect against misfortune.
In summary
This Kongo monkey is a piece of protection and divination. Its gathered posture and clear eyes indicate spiritual vigilance. It was not intended for decoration but to act as an active agent in the life of the community.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Animalier statuette - Kongo monkey
Height
40 cm
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
