Statue of a Zande ancestor. - DR Congo
03
days
12
hours
44
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44
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Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
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Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Name of the tribe. Azande
Material. Wood
Dimension. 55 cm
Mode of shipping. Colissimo within 24-48h, open
Structure elongated: The figure presents a slender silhouette, with a trunk and limbs relatively short compared to the imposing size of the head.
The head: It is the central element of the composition. It is topped with a pointed headdress characteristic, often associated with traditional styles of the region. The face bears stylized features: a pronounced line descends from the top of the skull to the nose, emphasizing a rigorous symmetry.
Details and Ornaments
Body engravings: The torso is adorned with geometric incised motifs, forming a chevron or inverted 'V' pattern on the abdomen, which could evoke traditional scarifications.
Adornments: The statue is enhanced by the addition of bead necklaces, located at the neck and ankles. These elements bring a touch of color and attest to the votive or ritual aspect of the object, as such adornments are often added by communities to dress or consecrate the figure.
Sex: The sculpture represents a male figure, highlighted by its anatomical morphology.
Cultural significance
In Zande culture, such figures (often called kudu or associated with protective or divination functions) are not merely decorative objects. They embody spirits or ancestors and play a crucial role in social and spiritual practices, serving as mediators between the world of the living and that of the spirits.
Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Name of the tribe. Azande
Material. Wood
Dimension. 55 cm
Mode of shipping. Colissimo within 24-48h, open
Structure elongated: The figure presents a slender silhouette, with a trunk and limbs relatively short compared to the imposing size of the head.
The head: It is the central element of the composition. It is topped with a pointed headdress characteristic, often associated with traditional styles of the region. The face bears stylized features: a pronounced line descends from the top of the skull to the nose, emphasizing a rigorous symmetry.
Details and Ornaments
Body engravings: The torso is adorned with geometric incised motifs, forming a chevron or inverted 'V' pattern on the abdomen, which could evoke traditional scarifications.
Adornments: The statue is enhanced by the addition of bead necklaces, located at the neck and ankles. These elements bring a touch of color and attest to the votive or ritual aspect of the object, as such adornments are often added by communities to dress or consecrate the figure.
Sex: The sculpture represents a male figure, highlighted by its anatomical morphology.
Cultural significance
In Zande culture, such figures (often called kudu or associated with protective or divination functions) are not merely decorative objects. They embody spirits or ancestors and play a crucial role in social and spiritual practices, serving as mediators between the world of the living and that of the spirits.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Statue of a Zande ancestor.
Height
55 cm
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
