Lot: 424

83rd Tribal Art Auction

Janiform figure "kabeja"

D. R. Congo, Luba

Provenance Size Starting price / estimated price
Berthe & Max Kofler-Erni, Riehen, Switzerland
Swiss Private Collection
Greg Houser, Minneapolis, USA
H: 12.4 inch This object is not available anymore.

wood, honey brown patina, brass necklace, two identical formed figures, arranged back to back, funnel-shaped superstructure for insertion of magical substances, min. dam., small missing parts, cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
"kabeja" figures are seen as visual icon of the primordial couple, the founders of the society. They are owned by the clan head known as the "fumu mwela". "Kabeja" figures are presented at clan meetings led by the chief. They were used by individuals for multiple purposes: to ensure good relationship with primordial ancestors, to encourage fertility and to protect against evil forces.