Ritual board "n'kita"
Click here to view a larger version of the imageLot: 484
86th Tribal Art AuctionRitual board "n'kita"
D. R. Congo, Teke, Tsaye
Provenance | Size | Starting price / estimated price |
---|---|---|
French Collection |
H: 56.7 inch; B: 9.4 inch |
This object is not available anymore. |
light wood, matt black patina, kaolin, the frontside carved with various geometrical patterns, several drilled holes for attachment, dam., missing parts along rim, cracks, traces of weathering, waterspots (backside);
such boards were used for the "n'kita" ritual. Every sign on the board has a different symbolism and meaning. The board was attached to the bed of the woman who was chosen to be an oracle/medium for soothsaying. After the ritual most of these boards were burned.