Small power figure "phuungu"
Click here to view a larger version of the imageLot: 481
84th Tribal Art AuctionSmall power figure "phuungu"
D. R. Congo, Yaka
Provenance | Size | Starting price / estimated price |
---|---|---|
Cecile Kerner, Brussels, Belgium | H: 6.9 inch | This object is not available anymore. |
wood, dark brown patina, pigment remains, remains of mass in the breast area, drilled hole in both ears, slightly dam. (backside), base;
such figures are used as receptacles or supports for magical preparations. When they are charged with magical ingredients, the image becomes a particular type of fetish, the medicine-poison that "make ill" - "kukwata" or "make well" - "kubuka" by an invisible influence.