Kota Mahongwe Double Faced Reliquary Figure with Axe Blade on Custom Stand Gabon

The Kota Mahongwe reliquary figure is a significant example of Gabonese African art, created by the Kota peoples of northeastern Gabon. These figures were used in spiritual and ceremonial contexts, serving as guardians of ancestral remains and acting as a bridge between the living and ancestral worlds.

This example features a striking double-faced form, a rare variation symbolizing heightened spiritual awareness and protection. The elongated axe-blade-shaped head, sheathed in metal, reflects the classic Mahongwe style with its refined symmetry and geometric abstraction. The metal surface, often copper or brass, may show areas of natural oxidation, creating a desirable green patina.

As is typical, the body is simplified, functioning primarily as a support for the head. Traditionally, such figures were mounted atop bark or fiber reliquary containers known as “Bwete.” This piece is now mounted on a custom stand for display.

The Kota peoples, made up of several groups, center much of their artistic tradition on ancestor veneration. Many of these objects were hidden or discarded following European contact and the spread of Christianity in the 19th century, with surviving examples later entering collections and the art market.

Today, Kota Mahongwe reliquary figures remain highly valued for their powerful form, cultural significance, and enduring influence on modern art.

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