Fetish - mbuti - Teke - DR Congo

Ancient Teke mbuti figure
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Height: 26.5 cm
Maximum width: 5 cm
Height on base: 29 cm
Estimated period: late 19th century
Provenance: Patrick Peire (Bruges); André Vanhecke (The African Connection gallery); Scott Bergmans (Lommel); Bonhams auction house - Cornette de St- Cyr (Brussels) Lot No. 98

In the Teke country, fetishes occupy a prominent place. Their use, based on magic, rests on the notions of buti. Of anthropomorphic form, they are used to treat illnesses, ensure fertility, protect, or even aid hunting and fishing. The cavity allows the diviner, the nganga, to imbue the statue with ingredients and magical substances—formerly covered by a matrix of earth—so that it can guarantee its prerogatives.

This very fine Teke fetish, rarely so well preserved, will be sold with its Bonhams invoice.

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