African Arts Gallery

Bassikassingo statue (N° 14669)

The influence of migratory movements in African art
Migration flows have intermingled within the same territories of the Bembe , Lega, Buyu (Buye) or Boyo , Binji and Bangubangu. The Bassikassingo , considered by some to be a sub-clan Buyu , are not of bembe origin although they live on their territory, the work of Biebuyck has allowed to trace their history. Organized in line-ups, they borrowed the association of the Bwami Lega. The bembé and boyo traditions are relatively similar They venerate the spirits of nature, water specifically among the Boyo, but also heroic ancestors, whose will is sought to be known through divinatory rites. Hunting is also an opportunity to make sacrifices of gratitude to the entities whose favour sities have been called for and protected. Their masks are rare and their function is poorly documented. The extended triangular face of a beard is specific to the Bassikassingo style. Wide almond eyes, an elegant nose, a fleshy mouth. Another distinctive feature is a special chignon, wrapped in a plant-fibre sill. According to Daniel Biebuyck, the widespread use of ancestor figures is the result of the presence of pre-Bembe hunters among these groups living on the west shore of Lake Tanganyika.Cracks of desication. Brilliant golden brown skate.
Ref.: "Art and Life inAfrica" C. D. Roy