Songye ancestor statue - DR Congo
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 350 - € 400
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Statue d'ancêtre Songye, an original wooden sculpture from the Songye people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, 50 cm high, provenance Galerie/Antiquaire, sold with stand, in good condition.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Origin. Democratic Republic of Congo
Tribe name. Songye
Material. Wood
Dimension. 50 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open.
Anthropomorphic statue from the artistic tradition of the Songye people, originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The Head: It features an oval shape characteristic of Songye sculpture, marked by a finely cross-hatched or incised headdress. The eyes are almond-shaped, half-closed, underscored by incisions. The face is dominated by a prominent forehead and a protruding jaw, typical of Songye statuary.
The Posture: The figure stands in a classic upright position, hands resting on the belly, a gesture often associated with fertility or the founding ancestor. The arms are angular and detached from the body.
Anatomical Details: The torso shows a central vertical scarification, a recurring aesthetic detail in this art. The navel is prominent, marking the center of gravity of the silhouette.
Additive Elements
Adornment: A necklace made of trade beads (white, blue, and red) is worn around the neck, a common addition to this type of statuary that lends the object a ceremonial or decorative dimension added over time.
Context
This type of figure is generally linked to protective practices and mediation with the spirits of ancestors. The stylization of the body and the rigidity of the posture aim less to depict realistic anatomy than to embody a spiritual power and ancestral authority.
Would you like more precise information on the ritual function of this type of statuette or on the history of Songye art?
Origin. Democratic Republic of Congo
Tribe name. Songye
Material. Wood
Dimension. 50 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open.
Anthropomorphic statue from the artistic tradition of the Songye people, originating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
The Head: It features an oval shape characteristic of Songye sculpture, marked by a finely cross-hatched or incised headdress. The eyes are almond-shaped, half-closed, underscored by incisions. The face is dominated by a prominent forehead and a protruding jaw, typical of Songye statuary.
The Posture: The figure stands in a classic upright position, hands resting on the belly, a gesture often associated with fertility or the founding ancestor. The arms are angular and detached from the body.
Anatomical Details: The torso shows a central vertical scarification, a recurring aesthetic detail in this art. The navel is prominent, marking the center of gravity of the silhouette.
Additive Elements
Adornment: A necklace made of trade beads (white, blue, and red) is worn around the neck, a common addition to this type of statuary that lends the object a ceremonial or decorative dimension added over time.
Context
This type of figure is generally linked to protective practices and mediation with the spirits of ancestors. The stylization of the body and the rigidity of the posture aim less to depict realistic anatomy than to embody a spiritual power and ancestral authority.
Would you like more precise information on the ritual function of this type of statuette or on the history of Songye art?
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
DR Congo
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Songye ancestor statue
Height
50 cm
Provenance
Gallery / Antique dealer
Authenticity
Original/official
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