Herminette figurative - Mbala - DR Congo

• Mbala figurative herminette

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

• Height: 35 cm (38 cm on the base)

• Materials: wood, wrought iron, upholstery nails, plant fibers, an indeterminate seed

• Period: early 20th century

• Provenance: colonial collection, Belgium; Patrick Claes, Belgium; Jean-Marc Desaive, Belgium; Srdjan Sremac, Netherlands; Robert van der Heijden, Netherlands

— These types of herminettes were functional insignia for men such as professional sculptors, chiefs and diviners. Worn over the shoulder and held in one hand, they underscored the holder's special status. (Elsen, De Fer et De fierté, 2003; Roberts, Joyce and Berns, eds., Striking Iron: The Art of African Blacksmiths, 2019; Westerdijk, African Metal Implements, 1984).

— The blade springs from the mouth of the carved figure, like a metal tongue. The figure stands with hands clasped, as if in prayer. As is customary, the classic Mbala hairstyle is a crest covered with upholstery nails. A very old label is found at the bottom of the haft of this herminette, reading; "Bambala". One may also read "Kwilu" (province) and "Lusenge" which could be the village where it was collected. Very fine provenance.

— Careful delivery, insured and with tracking number.