Kongo Maternity Figure on Base Congo Pearson Collection

An intricately carved Kongo Maternity Figure. Measuring 18 inches in height, the engraved wood surfaces reflect geometric patterning, typical of Kongo figures. The female figure is seated with a small child on her lap.

The term "Kongo" encompasses all speakers of the Kikongo language, who may be affiliated with the Yombe, Woyo, and Vili groups. In the realm of Kongo art, artisans have crafted a multitude of figures and objects distinguished by their naturalistic features. Particularly prevalent in the Lower Kongo region are seated mother-and-child figures. These maternity figures served a dual purpose: safeguarding mothers during childbirth and ensuring the well-being of the child. The efficacy of a maternity statue was contingent upon the dignity of the depicted figure and its youthful attributes, as evidenced by the firmness of the breasts.

Provenance: Robert Pearson Collection

Bob Pearson began collecting African art later in his life. He was an engineer, inveterate climber, and long-time collector of books and paintings. Spurred by the Douglas Society at the Denver Museum of Art, and his friendship with noted collector George Heggarty, he began building an enormous, eclectic collection. His African art library grew to several hundred books. He loved textiles and “material culture”-things that had domestic use, like spoons, cups, stools, and chairs, as well as masks and carvings. His collection included items from more than thirty African countries, and his fine eye gave him pieces ranging from a gold dust scale to huge Dogon figural ladders. Africa Direct is honored to have been chosen to sell them.

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