Songye ancestor statue - DR Congo

Origin. Democratic Republic of the Congo
Tribe. Songye
Material. Wood. Iron. Horn
Dimensions. 72 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo in 24–48 hours

This magnificent carved wooden statue belongs to traditional Songye art (Democratic Republic of the Congo) and is traditionally associated with figures of power or protection known as Nkishi (plural Mankishi).
Here is a detailed description of its characteristic features:
The head and face: The face has expressive, powerful features, often enhanced by a metal application (a blade or brass plate) on the nose and forehead that catches the light. The wide-open eyes have inlays (sometimes beads or bone) that intensify the sculpture’s piercing, menacing gaze. The mouth is slightly open, revealing carved teeth.
The headdress and upper feature: The head is topped with an elaborate headdress adorned with wooden or metal strips arranged in a fan shape, from which emerges a curved carved element in the shape of a horn or stylized crest.
The jewelry and adornments: The neck is heavily laden with multiple rows of light-colored beads (white, beige), interspersed with colored seed beads (blue and red).
The body and magical charge (Bishimba): The hands rest on a prominent abdomen. A cavity can be seen in the belly (sometimes covered or closed with a pouch or a piece of wood), intended to hold the magical or ritual charge (bishimba) that gives the statue its spiritual power. The body is partly wrapped in knotted fabrics (red/burgundy cloth) and cords.
The structure and base: The statue stands on a solid cylindrical wooden base. On the side, an accessory in the form of a cylinder or vertical stake can be seen, associated with the sculpture and also partly adorned with turquoise beads.
This type of statue was used to protect a community or an individual, ward off evil spells, seal oaths, or settle disputes within the village.