H x W x D: 14.3 x 2.2 x 2.2 cm (5 5/8 x 7/8 x 7/8 in.)
Type:
Figure
Geography:
Kwango-Kwilu River region, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date:
Early to mid-20th century
Label Text:
Yaka and Suku artists of the Democratic Republic of the Congo create personal charms with packets of cloth and organic materials. Packets can envelop a human figure in a ball-like manner, or flank the figure about the torso with protruding sticks, feathers or bamboo. Known as phuungu or pungu, these items are meant to ward off evil and protect against witchcraft, but can also be used to cause harm to anyone making trouble. Figures such as this were generally owned by the head of a patrilineal kin group and could protect familial relations as well as individuals. The particular ingredients and function of each figure is determined by a diviner and a specialist then sought for its manufacture.
The Suku and Yaka are so closely related, culturally and religiously, and their arts so similar that it is often difficult to distinguish their sculpture. However, this figure is likely Yaka, as Eliot Elisofon rarely, if at all, visited Suku villages.
Description:
Anthropomorphic figure in wood covered in encrustation, feathers and organic materials. The legs are straight and together tapering to feet that are simple and blocky. The head of the figure is not well defined, but projections from the front and side of it suggest ears and nose.
Provenance:
Eliot Elisofon, New York, -- to 1973
Content Statement:
As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
Image Requests:
High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
