Lengola Ancestor Statue - DR Congo
09
days
12
hours
46
minutes
46
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 150 - € 200
No bids placed
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 135253 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Tribe name. Lengola
Material. Wood
Dimension. 40 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
Decorative statue of the Lengola ethnic group, a people living mainly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in the region located between the Lomami and Lualaba rivers.
Here is a detailed description of its stylistic features and meaning:
1. Stylistic Features
The Lengola sculpture is distinguished by a minimalist and geometric aesthetic, often described as “proto-Cubist” by art historians.
The Face: it is treated in a flat plane with an inverted heart shape, 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 sturdy and rest on schematic feet.
2. Use and Significance: 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 may 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.
Tribe name. Lengola
Material. Wood
Dimension. 40 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
Decorative statue of the Lengola ethnic group, a people living mainly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), in the region located between the Lomami and Lualaba rivers.
Here is a detailed description of its stylistic features and meaning:
1. Stylistic Features
The Lengola sculpture is distinguished by a minimalist and geometric aesthetic, often described as “proto-Cubist” by art historians.
The Face: it is treated in a flat plane with an inverted heart shape, 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 sturdy and rest on schematic feet.
2. Use and Significance: 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 may 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
Sold by
