African art > African statues : tribal fetish, maternity > Metoko Figure

Metoko Figure (N° 22167) Deposit sale

It was during initiation rites that this figure appeared accompanied by its feminine complement Itea. They also welcomed the souls of the recently deceased before their departure for the afterlife, then were then abandoned in the forest. Pastille patterns and perforations punctuate the matte surface, while the face encrusted with cowries and teeth is divided into two colours. Abrasions and cracks.
The Metoko and the Lengola, whose ritual sculptures are very similar, are peoples of the primary forest dedicated to the worship of a single God, a rare monotheism in Africa. Their society comprising three ranks, the Bukota, structured daily life and welcomed both men and women. It represents the equivalent of the Bwami association of the Lega. The sculptures played a role during initiation ceremonies, and were then placed on the tomb of high-ranking initiates. Kakungu in particular was surrounded by other sculpted objects, including Ntanda and Itea couple figures, related to initiation rites and circumcision . Most of these figures had a name, like the lega traditions.  

Watch the video

Sold 


This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity

Estimate shipping cost





OriginCollection suisse
EthnyMetoko
Countryrdc ex zaire
Material(s)wood, cauris, dents
Height cm49
Width13 cm
Weight1.00 Kg
Estimated datingmid-xx°

You could also be interested by these items

You must login to access these options
   Warn me if a similar item is added to the catalog
   Warn me if the price decreases
Manage my alerts


You have question on this item ? contact us


Previously viewed items
African art - Metoko Figure
African art  - 

© 2024 - Digital Consult SPRL

Essentiel Galerie SPRL
73A Rue de Tournai - 7333 Tertre - Belgique
+32 (0)65.529.100
visa Master CardPaypal