작품 상세

Democratic Republic of the Congo The Yaka produce two genres of figural sculptures: the fetish figure (Nkisi) which bears medicinal ingredients and these ancestral figures (Bapfumu). According to Yaka belief, the latter are regarded as receptacles of the spirits of deceased ancestors. Healers, diviners, and chiefs use these figures in order to invoke the ancestors’ intercession and guidance. Therefore, figures such as this one serve as visual and tactile reminders of the ancestors’ assured assistance in procuring good health, fortune, and protection against any harm. It represents a special high ember of society and was probably refered to as the chief or Nkaaka "grandfather". Its beaded necklace and loincloth are now missing, but the high crests of the hairstyle are to fashion of high ranking members in the region in the late 19th century. The figure’s mouth is open, as if in speech. Concave planes set off the expressive face from the hairline, ears, and neck of the abstracted figure. The arm and hand curve upward to touch the chin in an unusual gesture associated with the art of the Yaka and the neighbouring Hungaan people.