Animalier statuette - Kongo monkey - DR Congo
02
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€ 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.
Material: Wood
Dimension: 40 cm
Shipping method: Colissimo within 24-48h, open.
This decorative carved wooden statuette is a classic and powerful representation of Kongo art (originating 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 occupies a special place in Kongo cosmogony. Contrary to 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 may also indicate that the entity is 'eating' or absorbing magical substances to protect its owner.
The drum: The animal appears to hold or sit behind a drum. In Kongo culture, the drum is not merely an instrument; it is a tool for communication with the beyond. The rhythm calls forth the spirits.
2. Physical Characteristics and Materials
The Eyes: The use of shell fragments or white porcelain for the eyes is typical of Kongo art. The white (mpemba color) evokes the realm of the dead and the statue's ability to 'see' into the invisible world.
Additional Elements: You can notice cords or fibers around the neck and base, as well as a small fragment (perhaps glass or a mirror) on top of the skull. These elements were often used to seal magical charges (bilongo).
3. Function: A Power Object
This type of statuette generally belongs to the Minkisi (plural of Nkisi) category.
A Nkisi is a receptacle for a spiritual force. It was used by a diviner or healer (Nganga) to resolve social problems, heal illnesses, or protect against malevolent spells.
In summary
Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Material: Wood
Dimension: 40 cm
Shipping method: Colissimo within 24-48h, open.
This decorative carved wooden statuette is a classic and powerful representation of Kongo art (originating 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 occupies a special place in Kongo cosmogony. Contrary to 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 may also indicate that the entity is 'eating' or absorbing magical substances to protect its owner.
The drum: The animal appears to hold or sit behind a drum. In Kongo culture, the drum is not merely an instrument; it is a tool for communication with the beyond. The rhythm calls forth the spirits.
2. Physical Characteristics and Materials
The Eyes: The use of shell fragments or white porcelain for the eyes is typical of Kongo art. The white (mpemba color) evokes the realm of the dead and the statue's ability to 'see' into the invisible world.
Additional Elements: You can notice cords or fibers around the neck and base, as well as a small fragment (perhaps glass or a mirror) on top of the skull. These elements were often used to seal magical charges (bilongo).
3. Function: A Power Object
This type of statuette generally belongs to the Minkisi (plural of Nkisi) category.
A Nkisi is a receptacle for a spiritual force. It was used by a diviner or healer (Nganga) to resolve social problems, heal illnesses, or protect against malevolent spells.
In summary
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
Animalier statuette - Kongo monkey
Height
40 cm
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