{"product_id":"anthropomorphic-ritual-power-figure-congo-rohner-collection-157334","title":"Anthropomorphic Ritual \/ Power Figure Congo Rohner Collection","description":"\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"225\" data-end=\"466\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"225\" data-end=\"266\"\u003eAnthropomorphic Ritual \/ Power Figure\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"266\" data-end=\"269\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"269\" data-end=\"301\"\u003eCentral Africa, Congo region\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"301\" data-end=\"304\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"304\" data-end=\"364\"\u003ePossibly Bembe\/Beembe or closely related Kongo tradition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"468\" data-end=\"787\"\u003eCarved in a highly abbreviated anthropomorphic form, this figure is characterized by a disproportionately large, strongly geometric head, broad facial planes, carved eyes, simplified torso and limbs, and a substantial rounded integral base. The dark, worn surface exhibits extensive handling and age-related patination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"789\" data-end=\"1182\"\u003eOf particular significance is a deep, deliberately bored cavity entering through the underside of the base. The opening is irregular at its mouth but extends approximately five inches into the figure, narrowing toward its inner termination. Old residual material remains within the cavity. The construction appears intentional rather than the result of damage or natural deterioration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1184\" data-end=\"1558\"\u003eThe concealed cavity is an important feature in considering the object's original function. Comparable Bembe figures are documented with cavities through which medicinal or spiritually potent substances were introduced, and such figures could function as ancestral or power objects. Comparable ritual practices are also documented among neighboring Kongo-related traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1560\" data-end=\"1976\"\u003eThe figure's carved rather than inset eyes and distinctive head\/body proportions prevent a definitive Bembe attribution on stylistic grounds alone. A related Kongo\/Beembe or neighboring Central African tradition therefore remains possible. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\" data-start=\"1978\" data-end=\"2225\"\u003eAppears to retain substantial original material, with age-related surface wear, abrasions, minor losses\/cracking and a darkened patina. The residual material within the internal cavity should be preserved and not cleaned or removed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: John R. Rohner Collection\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/i\u003eRohner, a museum curator for decades, aimed his practiced eye for authenticity to African art beginning in the early 1908s. His passion for this art only grew through the decades he built his collection––always with an aim for a broad and representative array of pieces. The collection appears in his book, \u003ci\u003eArt Treasures from African Runners\u003c\/i\u003e (2000, University Press of Colorado). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem #586 on pg. 224\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHeight (In): 9.5\u003cbr\u003eWidth (In): 5.5\u003cbr\u003eDepth (In): 5.75\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOld tape residue on top of the head.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e157334\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"sku 157000","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52192109986087,"sku":"157334","price":95.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0826\/1015\/9911\/files\/IMG_2110_a302073f-ee3c-45db-b6eb-6f02cf81e0ba.jpg?v=1790627086","url":"https:\/\/africadirect.com\/products\/anthropomorphic-ritual-power-figure-congo-rohner-collection-157334","provider":"Africa Direct","version":"1.0","type":"link"}