STATUETTE SÎNGE- MANKISHI - DR Congo
06
days
21
hours
40
minutes
08
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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 € 240 - € 270
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Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Songye
Material. Wood
Dimension. 36 cm
Mode of shipment. Colissimo within 24-48h, open
This decorative sculpture represents a fetische monkey, more precisely a Mankishi (or power figure), originating from the Songye people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Here is a detailed description of its physical and symbolic characteristics:
1. Physical Aspect and Material
Posture: The monkey is depicted in a crouched position on a circular base. Its hands are raised to the level of its cheeks or ears, a classic posture in African art that can symbolize reflection, pain, or protection against malevolent influences.
Facial features: The face is stylized with prominent brow ridges and an open mouth showing a cavity, reinforcing the expressive and dynamic aspect of the piece.
2. Ritual Elements and Symbolism
The ventral cavity (abdomen): A large circular orifice is noticeable at the level of the belly. Among the Songye, this space is meant to receive the "bishimba", a magical charge composed of secret ingredients (herbs, animal or mineral substances) that endows the fetiche with its protective or healing power.
Lianimalité: The monkey is a recurring motif in the art of the Congo Basin. It is often seen as a mediator between the human world and the spirits of the forest.
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe name. Songye
Material. Wood
Dimension. 36 cm
Mode of shipment. Colissimo within 24-48h, open
This decorative sculpture represents a fetische monkey, more precisely a Mankishi (or power figure), originating from the Songye people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Here is a detailed description of its physical and symbolic characteristics:
1. Physical Aspect and Material
Posture: The monkey is depicted in a crouched position on a circular base. Its hands are raised to the level of its cheeks or ears, a classic posture in African art that can symbolize reflection, pain, or protection against malevolent influences.
Facial features: The face is stylized with prominent brow ridges and an open mouth showing a cavity, reinforcing the expressive and dynamic aspect of the piece.
2. Ritual Elements and Symbolism
The ventral cavity (abdomen): A large circular orifice is noticeable at the level of the belly. Among the Songye, this space is meant to receive the "bishimba", a magical charge composed of secret ingredients (herbs, animal or mineral substances) that endows the fetiche with its protective or healing power.
Lianimalité: The monkey is a recurring motif in the art of the Congo Basin. It is often seen as a mediator between the human world and the spirits of the forest.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
STATUETTE SÎNGE- MANKISHI
Height
36 cm
Sold by
