Teke Figure

Democratic Republic of Congo

Late 19th - Early 20th c

9 inches high x 2 1/2 inches wide

Ex: Robert Dupierre, Paris

$ 1,800

Inv. # A3064

This older, Teke figure known as Buti, was a magical charm used by ritual specialist in divination, for protection against sorcery, the acquisition of power and to direct vengeance. A  mass of ingredients called “bonga” was inserted into the abdominal cavity sometimes covering the statue’s entire trunk.