Small Maternity Figure with Infant, Benelulua People, DRC
6 3/4 x 1 1/8 x 1 1/8 in
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The Bena Lulua of the Democratic Republic of Congo, create statues that act as power figures, and these can be clearly recognized by the finial extension to the top of the head. The figure displays the harmonious features that are seen as the embodiment of Bena Lulua concepts of beauty. maternity figures are known as Chibola, and are used to stand guard over the mother during the difficult and dangerous time of childbirth. A particular cult has developed around these maternity figures which is known as bwanga bwa chibola, which is centred around boosting the fertility of women, preventing miscarriage and safeguarding newborn babies.
Les Bena
Lulua de la République démocratique du Congo créent des statues servant de
figures de pouvoir, aisément reconnaissables à leur prolongement en forme de
pommeau au sommet de la tête. La figure présente des traits harmonieux
incarnant les idéaux de beauté selon les conceptions esthétiques des Bena
Lulua. Les figures de maternité, appelées Chibola,
ont pour rôle de veiller sur la mère pendant la période difficile et dangereuse
de l’accouchement.
Un culte particulier s’est développé autour de ces figures maternelles, connu
sous le nom de bwanga bwa chibola,
et centré sur la stimulation de la fertilité féminine, la prévention des
fausses couches et la protection des nouveau-nés.
Provenance
Belgian Private CollectionJoin our mailing list
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