African Tribal Art - Mbumba Sango/ondumbo Reliquary Sculpture

Ex-collection of French African tribal art, the name of this prestigious collector will be communicated to the buyer.

This Bwete "Reliquary Figure", cut according to traditional conventions, is characterized by a geometric head with a flat face framed by protruding ears, perched on a long neck decorated with copper spirals. It has a lustrous patina as well as erosion marks and cracks linked to desiccation. The Massango, Mashango, Sango, Sangu, members of the Shira-Punu group, established themselves on the Chaillu massif in Gabon and in the province of Ngounié. The widespread use of baskets and reliquary packages containing the bones of the deceased, decorated with sculptures of this type, was a common practice throughout Gabon, among the Fang, the Kota, but also the Mitsogho and the Massango, where this cult takes the name of Bumba or Mbumba. These sculptures, acting as "mediums" between the living and the dead watching over their descendants, were associated with the bwete rites among the Kota, comparable to those of the Fang. In the exclusive presence of initiates, important clan decisions were made during ceremonies during which reliquaries were displayed and used. To revive their magical charge, the initiates rubbed the relic with sand.


Piece accompanied by its certificate of authenticity.
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