CONGO RDC

BEMBE Ancestor Figure

Beautiful sculpture with impressive angular architecture
For a piece with similar architecture, see Biebuyck, 1981, pages 71 to 75

According to the author, these statues were probably used by high-ranking members of the Bwamé association

The Bembe are based in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, north of Lake Tanganyika. (Do not confuse them with the Beembe who sometimes also spell Bembe and who are a people of the Kongo group)

They see themselves as the descendants of the Lega of which they are culturally close. The Bwamé of the Bembe has much in common with the Bwami of the Lega
At the same time, they have other secret associations such as Elunda and Alunga, whose mask helmets are well known by Congo art lovers.

Characteristics:

 

TYPE OF OBJECT: Figure, statue

ETHNICAL GROUP: Bembe

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Democratic Republic Congo

(ex Zaïre, ex Belgian Congo).

MATERIAL: Wood.

DIMENSIONS: About 17  inches high (43cm)
18 1/2 with the base (47cm)

CONDITION: Medium

Please have a look on pictures.

Bibliographie - Bibliography 

- Statuary from te pre-Bembe hunters, Daniel P. Biebuyck, 1981, Royal Museum of Central Africa, Tervuren 

- Le Bwame  du Léopard des Babembe  (Kivu-Congo), Pol-Pierre Gossiaux, ULG 2000-2006