Yaka figure - Figure - collar - Congo
09
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€ 1
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 700 - € 800
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Yaka wooden figure from Congo, attributed to the Yaka people, dating to ca. 1900–1910, measuring 20 cm high by 3 cm wide by 4 cm deep, in good used condition with minor age-related imperfections, sold with a stand; provenance: Jean-Michel Huguenin, Paris.
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Description from the seller
Medicinal institutions in the Kwango and Wamba rivers region have developed an array of figurative sculptures known as biteki (sing. yikeki) to address issues ranging from physical and mental illness to the negative interference of spiritual entities. Commissioned by a nganga (ritual specialist) from a sculptor, biteki are carved with attributes of leadership and introspection. Prominent headgear—in this case the mpu also worn by neighboring Kongo rulers—references the authority of headmen and land chiefs. Heavily lidded, downcast eyes suggest deep reflection, and the gesture of hands framing the beard may indicate a swearing of secrecy (Bourgeois 1984, p. 112). Once carved, the nganga empowered the sculpture with potent attachments of plant, animal, and mineral matter. The holes in either arm of this figure once held charms to ensure its efficacy. The completed yikeki was contained within a shelter, where it was cared for and fed by its nganga with offerings of kola nuts and sacrificial animal blood.
Provenance:
Jean-Michel Huguenin, Paris
Seller's Story
Montagut Gallery
Gallery specializing in African tribal art
Montagut Gallery is a gallery specializing in African tribal art, a space devoted to exploring and celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the African continent. Founded in 1990 in Barcelona, the gallery has been a beacon for lovers of tribal art, thanks to the drive and passion of Guilhem Montagut.
Guided by his deep interest in tribal art, Guilhem Montagut immersed himself in this fascinating world through the influence of Rachel Montagut, pioneer and visionary in the world of African tribal art, founder and prominent gallerist. Since then, the gallery has remained true to its mission of spreading the beauty and importance of African art on the international art scene.
Montagut Gallery’s presence extends beyond the borders of Barcelona, actively participating in world-renowned fairs such as TEFAF Maastricht, Brafa Art Fair, Paris Tribal, Parcours des Mondes, and FAB.
The gallery is dedicated to organizing multidisciplinary exhibitions that dialogue and juxtapose African art with other artistic languages, creating a space for cultural exchange and reflection. Its aim is to raise awareness and help people understand that African art is not only a unique cultural expression but also an integral and indispensable part of the world’s art history heritage.
Translated by Google TranslateMedicinal institutions in the Kwango and Wamba rivers region have developed an array of figurative sculptures known as biteki (sing. yikeki) to address issues ranging from physical and mental illness to the negative interference of spiritual entities. Commissioned by a nganga (ritual specialist) from a sculptor, biteki are carved with attributes of leadership and introspection. Prominent headgear—in this case the mpu also worn by neighboring Kongo rulers—references the authority of headmen and land chiefs. Heavily lidded, downcast eyes suggest deep reflection, and the gesture of hands framing the beard may indicate a swearing of secrecy (Bourgeois 1984, p. 112). Once carved, the nganga empowered the sculpture with potent attachments of plant, animal, and mineral matter. The holes in either arm of this figure once held charms to ensure its efficacy. The completed yikeki was contained within a shelter, where it was cared for and fed by its nganga with offerings of kola nuts and sacrificial animal blood.
Provenance:
Jean-Michel Huguenin, Paris
Seller's Story
Montagut Gallery
Gallery specializing in African tribal art
Montagut Gallery is a gallery specializing in African tribal art, a space devoted to exploring and celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the African continent. Founded in 1990 in Barcelona, the gallery has been a beacon for lovers of tribal art, thanks to the drive and passion of Guilhem Montagut.
Guided by his deep interest in tribal art, Guilhem Montagut immersed himself in this fascinating world through the influence of Rachel Montagut, pioneer and visionary in the world of African tribal art, founder and prominent gallerist. Since then, the gallery has remained true to its mission of spreading the beauty and importance of African art on the international art scene.
Montagut Gallery’s presence extends beyond the borders of Barcelona, actively participating in world-renowned fairs such as TEFAF Maastricht, Brafa Art Fair, Paris Tribal, Parcours des Mondes, and FAB.
The gallery is dedicated to organizing multidisciplinary exhibitions that dialogue and juxtapose African art with other artistic languages, creating a space for cultural exchange and reflection. Its aim is to raise awareness and help people understand that African art is not only a unique cultural expression but also an integral and indispensable part of the world’s art history heritage.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
Era
1900-2000
Number of objects
1
Title
Yaka figure
Country of origin
Congo
Material
Wood
Indigenous object name
collar
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Height
20 cm
Width
3 cm
Depth
4 cm
Estimated period
1900-1910
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