Figure - Congo

Kusu Power Figure

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Wood, 23 cm

Beginning 20th Century

A finely carved Kusu power figure of highly elongated proportions, characterized by a slender neck, strongly stylized facial features and elongated arms closely held to the body.

The figure is distinguished by the large circular cavity to the crown of the head, intended to receive or contain ritual substances associated with its spiritual efficacy.

The restrained yet powerful sculptural language, together with the dark, naturally aged surface and evidence of prolonged ritual handling, gives the figure a particularly compelling presence.

The elongated proportions and strongly abstracted physiognomy are characteristic of the refined sculptural traditions of the Kusu of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Kusu, or Bakusu, are documented in the region north of the Lomami and south of Maniema.

Old colonial collection