Lengola Ancestor Statue - DR Congo
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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.
Name of the tribe. Lengola
Material. Wood
Dimension. 40 cm
Mode of shipment. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
Decorative statue of the Lengola people, a community living mainly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in the region between the Lomami and Lualaba rivers.
Here is a detailed description of its stylistic features and meaning:
1. Stylistic Characteristics
The Lengola sculpture is distinguished by a minimalist and geometric aesthetic, often described by art historians as "proto-Cubist."
The Face: It is treated in relief with a heart-shaped inverted form, an influence also found among neighboring peoples such as the Lega. The eyes are often represented by simple slits or protruding rectangles, as is the case here.
The Body: The torso is generally elongated and cylindrical. The limbs are simplified to the extreme: the arms are short and sometimes detached from the body, while the legs are robust and rest on schematic feet.
2. Use and Meaning: The Bukota Society
Representation of Ancestors: Sometimes called Ubanga Nyama, these effigies often represent founding ancestors or high-ranking dignitaries.
Educational and Ritual Role: They are displayed during initiation or circumcision ceremonies to teach moral and social values to young initiates. They can also be placed on the tombs of high-ranking Bukota members to ensure social stability and village protection.
Invocations: Community members addressed these statues to obtain the mediation of spirits in times of crisis or to foster group cohesion.
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Name of the tribe. Lengola
Material. Wood
Dimension. 40 cm
Mode of shipment. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
Decorative statue of the Lengola people, a community living mainly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in the region between the Lomami and Lualaba rivers.
Here is a detailed description of its stylistic features and meaning:
1. Stylistic Characteristics
The Lengola sculpture is distinguished by a minimalist and geometric aesthetic, often described by art historians as "proto-Cubist."
The Face: It is treated in relief with a heart-shaped inverted form, an influence also found among neighboring peoples such as the Lega. The eyes are often represented by simple slits or protruding rectangles, as is the case here.
The Body: The torso is generally elongated and cylindrical. The limbs are simplified to the extreme: the arms are short and sometimes detached from the body, while the legs are robust and rest on schematic feet.
2. Use and Meaning: The Bukota Society
Representation of Ancestors: Sometimes called Ubanga Nyama, these effigies often represent founding ancestors or high-ranking dignitaries.
Educational and Ritual Role: They are displayed during initiation or circumcision ceremonies to teach moral and social values to young initiates. They can also be placed on the tombs of high-ranking Bukota members to ensure social stability and village protection.
Invocations: Community members addressed these statues to obtain the mediation of spirits in times of crisis or to foster group cohesion.
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
Lengola Ancestor Statue
Height
40 cm
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