Teke Standing Wood Figure Congo

Teke artistic activities are directed primarily to the carving of figures intended to have magical substances, known as Bonga, attached to them. Often called ‘fetishes' in the West these powerful figures have different titles according to their purpose and who owns them. For example figures known as Matomba prevent and cure illnesses and other figures identified as nkira ntswo, represent ancestors and were used during a ritual to propitiate nature spirits. Figures are not considered complete or powerful until given energy through the application of the magical substances into the stomach cavity, or placed as a ball around the figure. Teke figures are magically 'switched on' by the ngaa, the local ritual specialist after which they will be addressed and given offerings that through time add to the power that the figure contains. The facial scarification of vertical lines known as mabina are used by a number of the smaller subgroups such as the Mfinu or the Yanzi who share similar sculptural styles with the Teke.

138676

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

Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.   Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use.  We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings.  Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.