Democratic Republic of Congo

Late 19th c

11 inches high x 2 3/4 inches wide

Ex: Maria Wyss, Switzerland Ex: Robert Dupierre, Paris

$1,800

Inv. # A3212

Teke fetish figures were called “Buti,” used by a ritual specialist for protection against witchcraft and disease, for acquiring power and for successful hunting. The figure’s face has linear scarification, a trapezoidal beard, slit eyes and a cap-like hairstyle. At one time the figure was covered by a magical organic mass of clay, only a small mass is left in the abdominal cavity. The Teke is in good condition with a loss of the right foot and age cracks on the face.

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