Old Songye Janus Figure Congo

This Songye Janus Figure from the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a striking example of Songye sculptural tradition. The figure is carved from wood and features a Janus-style head with two opposing faces, a form associated with spiritual and protective imagery in Songye art. The surface has developed a heavy, aged patina, with deep brown coloration and extensive natural wear.

The figure is heavily degraded, showing significant deterioration to the wood throughout. Areas of loss, cracking, splitting, erosion, and weathering are present, particularly along the body and lower portion. Despite its advanced condition, the remaining carved details and heavily aged surface give the figure a strong sense of age and character.

This piece would be of particular interest to collectors of African art and traditional Songye sculpture, especially those who appreciate heavily aged and weathered examples with a pronounced surface patina.

Figure cannot stand on its own. 

156685

Approximate Age: Early 20th Century
People: Songye
Country of Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo

Material: wood

Damage/Repair: This figure is heavily degraded and shows extensive age-related deterioration throughout the wood. There are significant areas of wood loss, cracking, splitting, erosion, and surface wear, particularly along the body and lower portion. The wood is dry and weathered, with numerous areas of insect damage or natural deterioration visible. The carved details have softened in places due to extensive wear. The figure has a heavy, aged patina consistent with its condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.