{"title":"Richard Meyer Gallery African Art Collection","description":"\u003cp\u003eWe are SO delighted to announce that everything in the collection is 50% off -- we love when our art items are going to a new home where they'll be loved and appreciated. If the price does not yet reflect that discount, know you can get in touch with us ahead of your purchase to have the price amended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: rgb(0, 89, 255);\"\u003eTo view and shop by African Tribe, please click \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/beadsofparadisenyc.com\/collections\/\" style=\"color: rgb(0, 89, 255);\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h5\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"yoruba-maternity-stool-nigeria","title":"Yoruba Maternity Divination Small Altar \/ Pedestal Stool, Nigeria #36","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYoruba Maternity Divination Small Altar \/ Pedestal Stool, Nigeria #36\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Wood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 11.42 Inches height\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThroughout Africa, Maternity Figures depict the ideals of beauty, fertility, character, and action and many signify much more, whether the primordial mother or a legendary founding ancestor. Commonly used as shrine figures, they were often objects of petitions or prayers for fertility and successful births. The prevalence of the maternity theme testifies to the importance of women and children to the continuity of each people.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWearing a high crest classic Yoruba hairstyle, she also has the deep keloid scarification marks of Yoruba Nobles on the body.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eClassic Yoruba beauty emphasis is seen in the wide bulging eyes, full lips, wide hips, and large bosom are also distinctive markers of traditional Yoruba statuary.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe main Yoruba cults are the Gélédé, Epa, Ogboni, and the Esu cult, through which a very wide variety of deities are involved.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAge approx mid-20th Century.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115107627093,"sku":"#36-LJ207","price":990.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/jsybdzk4.jpg?v=1655174730"},{"product_id":"hemba-soko-mutu-passport-mask-congo-32b","title":"Hemba Soko Mutu Passport Mask, Congo  #32B","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eHemba Soko Mutu Passport Mask, Congo #32B\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnly two types of Hemba Masks have been identified: that of an anthropomorphic type with regular features, whose pointed chin recalls statuary, and those depicting Monkeys, the Soko Mutu, and whose functions remain little known, but which probably belonged, according to J.Kerchache, to the Secret Societies Bugabo and Bdambudye . The smallest versions (about 20 centimeters) are said to have been carried by hand during Rituals intended for the protection of the home and fertility. In addition to the Kabeja Janiform statuettes, the statues of male Ancestors, kept by the Hereditary Leader of each Clan, the Fumu Mwalo, are called Songiti. It was during the 18th century that the Hemba settled on the vast plains of the right bank of the Lualaba. Their Society consists of large Clans from a common Ancestor. The discovery of Hemba statuary dates back to decolonization and has only recently been differentiated from that of the Luba.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eMeasurements: 8.66 Inch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStand not included but can be ordered on request.\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115130400853,"sku":"#032B-L235","price":1400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/8wikgrohcopy.jpg?v=1655517262"},{"product_id":"buyu-boyo-mask","title":"Buyu \/ Basikasingo Mask, Congo #32A","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuyu \/ Basikasingo Mask, Congo #32A\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDate\/Period: Second half of 20th century\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin: DRC, Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Wood, fibers, metal. Old copper wire repair around the chin of the Mask.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 12.2 Inch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBordered by a thin crenelated beard, this modestly sized mask, depicts an angular face. According to the stories, the Boyos is of Luba descent, through an ancestor who emigrated with her brothers. Migratory flows have mixed within the same territories of the Bembe, Lega, Buyu (Buye) or Boyo, Binji, and Bangubangu. The Basikasingo, considered by some to be a Buyu sub-clan, are not, however, of Bembe origin, Biebuyck's work has made it possible to trace their history. Organized into lineages, they borrowed the Bwami association from the Lega. The bembé and boyo tribal traditions are relatively similar: they venerate the spirits of nature, of water specifically in the Boyo, but also the heroic ancestors, whose will is sought through divinatory rites. The hunt is also an opportunity to make sacrifices of gratitude to the entities from which one has begged for favor and protection.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115138887765,"sku":"#32A-L178","price":742.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/bl6j13micopy.jpg?v=1659734008"},{"product_id":"songue-nkishi-statue","title":"Songye Nkisi Statue, Congo LARGE","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSongye Nkisi Statue, Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Wood, horn, metal, fibers, textile\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: 25.98 Inch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThese protective fetishes for homes are among the most prized in Africa. The Nkisi plays the role of mediator between gods and men. In the 16th century, the Songye migrated from the Shaba region to settle on the left bank of the Lualaba. Their society is organized in a patriarchal manner. Their history is inseparable from that of the Luba to whom they are related through common ancestors. The Songye have created impressive statues with powerful features that are often used during secret ceremonies, covered with accessories such as feathers, skin, and a horn full of magical charge. Very present in their society, the divination allowed them to discover the sorcerers and to bring clarifications on the causes of the misfortunes which struck the individuals.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThese Objects are not displayed on the Beads of Paradise NYC Sales Floor; please call ahead for a personal viewing with Joe or Jami at 212-620-0642 or email any questions to info@beadsofparadisenyc.com. Otherwise, available ONLINE ONLY.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115146686549,"sku":"","price":1900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/74re7btmcopy.jpg?v=1655517640"},{"product_id":"baoule-waka-sona-statue","title":"Baule Waka Sona Male Figure, Côte d'Ivoire #37","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBaule\u003c\/span\u003e Waka Sona Male Figure, Côte d'Ivoire #37\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDate\/Period: Mid-20th century\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 18.5\" height\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn a sitting position, straight back, this Baule Male Ancestor Figure places a hand on his beautifully braided beard, evoking a mood of quiet consideration and concern, wisdom and intelligence. The intricately executed hairstyle, intense and abundant scarification marks, and artistically rendered knees, upper-arm bracelet and accents on the stool reveal the Baule Concept of Male Beauty, which is constant within Baule Art.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAbout 60 Ethnic Groups populate the Côte d'Ivoire, including the Baule, in the Center Regions, Akans from Ghana known as People of the Savannah practicing hunting and agriculture, as well as the Guro People from whom Baule sculptors borrowed Ritual Cults practices and carved mask styles.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTwo types of Figures are produced by the Baule in the Ritual Context:\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Waka-Sona Statues, \"Beings of Wood\" in Baule language, represent Spirits of Ancestors. They are part of a type of Statue intended to be used as a Spirit Medium Tool by the Komien Soothsayers. The Komien are believed to be selected by the Asye Usu spirits in order to communicate the Revelations of the Beyond \/ the Spirit World.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe second type of Statues are the \"Spouses\" of the Beyond, Masculine, the \"Blolo Bian or Feminine, the Blolo Bla, which represent the Idealized Sexual Opposite or Spouse.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmong the Baule Peoples of Côte d'Ivoire, human experience evolves out of and remains inextricably linked to the Ancestral Spirit World, or Blolo (roughly, \"the Village of Truth\"), which controls and determines the Fate of the Living. Divination Figures serve as Links to the Spirit World and are a critical element in a Baule Diviner's professional practice. Baule Diviners are individuals who have been selected by Spirits, or Asye Usu, as Mediums through which to communicate important insights into the human condition. The sculptures are often described as the Asye Usu's \"STOOL,\" a figurative resting point for the Spirits. Divination Figures represent Idealized Male or Female Form in their Prime, which are considered by the Asye Usu as Desirable Forms to Inhabit, and so are used to draw the Unruly Spirits out of their home in the bush and into the Village.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFurther information:\u003cbr\u003eVogel, S.M. 1997. Baule: African Art Western Eyes. Yale University Press and The Museum for African Art: New Haven and New York, p. 236.\u003cbr\u003eLaGamma, A. 2000. Art and Oracle: African Art and Rituals of Divination. The Metropolitan Museum of Art: New York\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115157401685,"sku":"#37-LJ324","price":975.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/aypy2h3o.jpg?v=1659734780"},{"product_id":"songye-kalebwe-fetish-figure","title":"Songye \/  Kalebwe Nkisi Power Figure, Congo #20","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSongye \/  Kalebwe Nkisi Power Figure, Congo #20\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStatuette Nkisi, Nkishi (pl. Mankishi )whose top horn is absent. The power of the fetish, according to Songye beliefs, is reinforced by the presence of its accessories, such as metal and various additions of materials, vegetable fibers, animal skins, dried fruits, etc...\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThese protection fetishes for homes are among the most popular in Africa. The Nkisi plays the role of mediator between Gods and Men. The large specimens are the collective property of an entire Village, while the smaller figures belong to an individual or a family.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the sixteenth century, the Songyes migrated from the Shaba region to settle on the left bank of the Lualaba River. Their society is organized in a patriarchal way. Their history is inseparable from that of the Luba to whom they are related through common ancestors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Songyes created impressive statues with powerful features that are often used during secret ceremonies, covered with accessories such as feathers, skin, and a horn full of magical charge.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery present in their society, Divination made it possible to discover wizards and to shed light on the causes of the misfortunes that struck individuals.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eMeasurements: 14.96 Inch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCirca !950-60's\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eOrigin is DR Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115184795733,"sku":"Songye \/  Kalebwe Nkisi Power Figure, Congo #20","price":1150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/j69x7ol8.jpg?v=1655950831"},{"product_id":"yoruba-cutting-carrier-statue","title":"Yoruba Ifa Divination Offering Figure, Nigeria #15","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYoruba Ifa Divination Offering Figure, Nigeria #15\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDate\/Period: Second half 20th century\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin: Nigeria\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: 14.17 Inch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: Excellent, Fine and Authentic.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe main Yoruba Cults are the Gelede, Epa, Ogboni, and the Worship of Esu, through which a very wide variety of Deities intervene. In the Yoruba Pantheon, Orunmila is the Deity \"Orisa\" that is consulted in case of problems through Divination Ifà .\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKneeling Female figures are Iconic in Yoruba Religious Art. In this pose, the Figure represents a Supplicant before the Orisha, or Deity, on whose Altar it is placed. The image beautifies the Altar and thereby Honors the Orisha.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYoruba Figures are sometimes shown kneeling, \"a position of Respect, Devotion, and even Submission to the Gods. This posture is appropriate [because] most Women in Yoruba sculptures represent Royal Wives or Worshippers, not Gods themselves\" (Cole 1985, 19).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis type of Figure with a cup meant to contain Sacred Palm Nuts was used in Divination Rites. Focused on the Veneration of its Gods, or Orisha, Yoruba \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eReligion relies on artistic sculptures with Coded Messages (Aroko). They are designed by sculptors at the request of followers, Soothsayers and their customers. These spirits are supposed to intercede with the Supreme God Olodumare.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115239387221,"sku":"#15-L265","price":900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/v83tmn9s.jpg?v=1656208675"},{"product_id":"lega-bwami-wooden-figure","title":"Lega Bwami Wooden Figure, Congo #16","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Bwami Wooden Figure, Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWithin the Lega, the Bwami society, open to men and women, organized social and political life. There were up to seven levels of initiation, each associated with emblems. Following their exodus from Uganda in the seventeenth century, the Lega settled on the west bank of the Lualaba River in the DRC. Also known as Warega, they live in self-contained villages surrounded by palisades, usually on hilltops. The role of chief, kindi, is held by the oldest man in the clan, who must be the highest ranking. As in other forest tribes, the men hunt and clear land while the women cultivate cassava. Social recognition and authority had to be earned individually: the chief owed his selection to his heart (mutima), good character, intelligence, and irreproachable behavior .\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 9.45 Inch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eStand not included.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115270746197,"sku":"","price":900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/vlaqoc4y.jpg?v=1656212674"},{"product_id":"lega-bwami-wooden-figure-congo-11","title":"Lega Bwami Wooden Figure, Congo #11","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Bwami Wooden Figure, Congo #11\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAmong the many others used throughout the initiations, it belonged to an initiate of the Bwami. The teacher guided the aspirant to a place where masks and statuettes were displayed, and it was through careful observation that the future initiate had to guess the more or less complex meaning of the metaphors evoked by the sculptures, the latter referring largely to proverbs and sayings. Those who were not allowed to see the object, in order to be protected from it, had to submit to costly ceremonies, and sometimes even join the lower rank of Bwami, the kongabulumbu ,at great expense to the families. Each of these initiations lasted seven days and included at least seven performances. The objects \"won\" individually were then kept in a woven bag carried on the shoulder, in a basket for those who were won collectively. The \" Masengo \" objects of the Bwami (\"powerful things\") frequently have lacks, perforations, or abrasions in the wood, due to ritual removal for the purpose of medicine. A decoction composed of the particles mixed with water was then administered to the patient (Biebuyck 1976).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: 13.39 Inch\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCirca 1940's\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115281526869,"sku":"#11 Lega Figure","price":800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/a48z7n9v.jpg?v=1656273158"},{"product_id":"female-maternity-figure-luba-zela","title":"Luba\/ Zela Female Maternity Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo  #19","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLuba\/ Zela Female Maternity Figure #19\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOnce Subjects to the Luba Kingdom, the Zela Peoples adopted many Luba Customs and Traditions. Established between the Luvua River and Lake Kisalé, the Zela Peoples are now organized into four Chiefdoms under the supervision of Leaders of Luba Origin.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Zela Peoples venerate a Primordial Couple, frequently represented in the statuary as Mythical Ancestors of their People, and dedicate offerings to the Spirits of Nature that surround their Villages..\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn addition to their powerful Mbudye society, the Zela also have a Female Initiation Association called Kisungu. (Luba, Roberts, 5 Continents; \"Treasures of Africa\" from the Museum of Tervuren; \"100 people of Zaire\" M.L.Félix ).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDimensions: 14.5 Inch height\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin is Democratic Republic of Congo, formerly Zaire.\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115313770581,"sku":"#19-LJ340","price":690.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/uejtompg.jpg?v=1656378601"},{"product_id":"bembe-beembe-female-kitebi-power-figure-democratic-republic-of-congo-29","title":"Bembe \/ Béembé Female Kitebi Power Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo #29","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBembe \/ Béembé Female Kitebi Power Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo #29\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDate\/Period: Second half of 20th century\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin: DRC, Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Wood\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeasurements: 17.72 Inch height\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdditional Information: The Vili, the Lâri, the Sûndi, the Woyo, the Bembé, the \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEstablished on the plateaus of the People's Republic of Congo ex.Brazzaville, and not to be confused with the Bembe group of northern Lake Tanganinyika, the small Babembé group, Béembé, was influenced by the Téké Rites and Culture, but especially by that of the Kongo. Settled in the current Republic of Congo, the Béembé originally formed the kingdom of Kongo, with the Vili, Yombé, Bwendé and Woyo.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHunting being a major activity, the Ancestors were invoked through statuettes. These idealized representations of Ancestors, Kitebi or Bimbi, consecrated by the Nganga, displayed the attributes of Virtuous Women and Men, Hunters, or Healers. \u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40115333922901,"sku":"#29-LJ189","price":1640.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/etj58qwg.jpg?v=1656635771"},{"product_id":"unusual-large-african-igbo-ikenga-figure-nigeria","title":"Igbo Magnificently Large Ikenga Warrior Figure, Nigeria #301 PROVENANCE","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIgbo Magnificently Large Ikenga Warrior Figure, Nigeria #301\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements Size: 48'' x 14'' x 11'' (122 x 36 x 28 cm). Height on stand: 44\" (112 cm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFigure is sold on the base, as seen in the photos.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: bold;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProvenance: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eEx-collection Sidney and Gae Berman, New York, acquired before 1974.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA male Igbo ‘Mythical Warrior’, figure called ‘Edjo’, seated on an eroded base, sitting upright and rigidly on a two legged stool, wedge-shaped feet, wearing large anklets, the sturdy legs leading to prominent buttocks, accentuated genitals, with a large sword in one hand and the severed head of a vanquished enemy in the other hand. The figure is carved from  single piece of very hard, heavy wood, covered with traces of a reddish-brown, black and white pigment layer. The figure exhibits signs of age and ritual use. The base is quite eroded yet completely stable.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Igbo honor the Forces of Nature in the form of Spirits, as well as...a figurative statue, and ritually venerated in his own shrine where he is given offerings.\"\u003cbr\u003eLiving in the middle of the African forest, the Igbo always believed that the Spirits of the Forest, the Edjo, influenced their daily lives. Warrior sculptures representing the Edjo are a tribute to the Spirits of the Forest, as well as to the Ancestors. They can be considered either evil or beneficial, and each Community has the duty of controlling them. The Edjo are subject to an almost daily Cult, and each Edjo has a dedicated Priest or Priestess.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIkenga is a personal God of human endeavor, achievement, success, and victory. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIkenga is grounded in. the belief that the power for a man to accomplish things is in his right hand.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIkenga also governs over industry, farming, and blacksmithing, and is celebrated every year with an annual Ikenga Festival.\u003cbr\u003eIkenga are mostly maintained, kept or owned by men and occasionally by women of high reputation and integrity in the Society. It comprises someone's Chi (personal God), his Ndichie (Ancestors), aka Ikenga (right hand), ike (power) as well as Spiritual activation through prayer and sacrifice.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe frontal temporal scarifications are classic in the Culture and Art of the Igbo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEstimated age: Between 1930 - 1950.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOrigin is Nigeria.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118650863701,"sku":"Berman XL Igbo Ikenga","price":7500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/IgboIkengaFigure.webp?v=1654913567"},{"product_id":"standing-african-igbo-ikenga-shrine-figure-nigeria","title":"Igbo Ikenga Shrine Figure with Colonial Style Pith Helmet, Nigeria #225 PROVENANCE","description":"\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eIgbo Ikenga Shrine Figure with Pith Helmet, Nigeria #225 \u003cstrong\u003ePROVENANCE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Igbo honor the Forces of Nature in the form of Spirits, as well as...a figurative statue, and ritually venerated in his own shrine where he is given offerings.\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eLiving in the middle of the African forest, the Igbo always believed that the Spirits of the Forest, the Edjo, influenced their daily lives. Warrior sculptures representing the Edjo are a tribute to the Spirits of the Forest, as well as to the Ancestors. They can be considered either evil or beneficial, and each Community has the duty of controlling them. The Edjo are subject to an almost daily Cult, and each Edjo has a dedicated Priest or Priestess.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eIkenga is a personal God of human endeavor, achievement, success, and victory.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eIkenga is grounded in. the belief that the power for a man to accomplish things is in his right hand.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eIkenga also governs over industry, farming, and blacksmithing, and is celebrated every year with an annual Ikenga Festival.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eIkenga are mostly maintained, kept or owned by men and occasionally by women of high reputation and integrity in the Society. It comprises someone's Chi (personal God), his Ndichie (Ancestors), aka Ikenga (right hand), ike (power) as well as Spiritual activation through prayer and sacrifice.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEstimated age: Between 1930 and 1950.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eLit.: Erwin Melchardt: Urhobo, Nigeria: A sculpture of the 'mythical warrior Ejo', who is venerated in his own shrines by the Urhobo, in: Doro theum, Lot No. 55; Perkins Foss, \"Urhobo Statuary for Spirits and Ancestors\", African Arts, July 1976, Vol. IX, No. 4, p. 18; Jean-Baptiste Bacquart: The Tribal Arts of Afric’, p. 93, fig. 8.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: Size: 34'' x 10'' x 7'' (86 x 25 x 18 cm).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eDepicted wearing a pith helmet, a carved \"string\" of beads, and holding a traditional Title Staff (repaired). Carved wood with kaolin, yellow ocher, cloth attachments and signs of ritual feeding.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePROVENANCE\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'San Francisco', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eOrigin is Igbo, Nigeria\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118664200277,"sku":"Berman Ikenga","price":4900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/Standing_African_Igbo_Ikenga_Shrine_Figure2.webp?v=1654913585"},{"product_id":"african-igbo-alusi-male-shrine-figure-nigeria","title":"Igbo Alusi Male Shrine Figure, Nigeria #190 PROVENANCE","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIgbo Male Alusi Male Shrine Figure, Nigeria #190\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: 39'' x 11'' x 8'' (99 x 28 x 20 cm).\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvenance: Ex collection Sidney and Gae Berman collected in 1960's\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlusi are known as Protective Deities among the Igbo People. Alusi Spirits serve as Protectors of a particular person, group of people, place, gender or profession, according to the Igbo understanding and belief.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eAlusi are believed to be the children or representatives of the High God Chuku. Sometimes depicted as life-size wooden figures, their Powers bring about good fortune or destruction.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHoused in elaborate enclosures, they are used to preside over Rituals. The largest figures in the Shrine are “Married Couples”, male and female large figures, smaller figures represent children.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis Alusi Figure, made of Iroko wood, stands in frontal position on heavy feet in non-naturalistic form, legs slightly spread, arms symmetrically arranged to the sides, free from the torso, forearms stretched forward, open hands with palms facing the sky, elongated neck with the head sitting on top, very straight chin line with mouth facing forward, Ichi Scarification deeply incised on the temples and forehead, repeated application of chalk or redwood causes encrustation of the surface.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn the past, these Deities were worshipped every Four Days. The Village Priest made Offerings in the form of food and drink in a Ceremony attended by the Village Elders and Leaders. The Offerings included chalk and kola nuts. Sometimes poultry, goats or sheep were also sacrificed. The “chaff”, i.e. the bodies of the sacrificed animals, served as a feast for these Deities, as the blood was said to be the preferred food of the Deities Themselves.\u003cbr\u003eDuring the annual “Feast of the Images”, village women painted and redecorated the Figures.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIn some Igbo areas, the various Figures were scattered around the Community and housed in different Tribal Shrines, but were brought together annually for Festivals. On these occasions, up to twenty or thirty Effigies are gathered, surrounded by or adorned with title insignia such as staffs, caps, eagle feathers and jewelry. Worshippers place cola, chalk and coins at the feet of the Figures.\u003cbr\u003eThe Guardian Figures are led through the City as a Sign of Respect. At the end of the Ceremony, the Figures are returned to their “Homes”, Shrines and Compounds.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLit.: Igbo Arts: Community and Cosmos: Herbert M.Cole, Chike Cyril Aniakor; Igbo Monumental Sculptures From Nigeria: Bernard de Grunne; The Spirituality of the Igbo People of Nigeria as an Example of Religious Modernization in a Global World: Henry Chukwudi Okeke; Niger Ibos: A Description of the Primitive Life, Customs and Animistic Beliefs of the Ibo People of Nigeria: George Thomas Basden.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118689857621,"sku":"#190","price":3400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/African_Igbo_Alusi_Male_Shrine_Figure2.webp?v=1654913628"},{"product_id":"african-igbo-female-alusi-shrine-figure-nigeria","title":"Igbo Female Alusi Shrine Figure, Nigeria #192 PROVENANCE","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIgbo Female Alusi Shrine Figure, Nigeria #192\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eProvenance: Ex collection Sidney and Gae Berman collected in 1960's\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eMeasurements: 46'' x 11'' x 8.5'' (117 x 28 x 22 cm)\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA Female Igbo Alusi Figure in an unusually large size.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlusi are known as Protective Deities among the Igbo People. Alusi Spirits serve as Protectors of a particular person, group of people, place, gender or profession, according to the Igbo understanding and belief.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlusi are believed to be the children or representatives of the High God Chuku. Sometimes depicted as life-size wooden figures, their Powers bring about good fortune or destruction.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHoused in elaborate enclosures, they are used to preside over Rituals. The largest figures in the shrine are “Married Couples”, male and female large figures, smaller figures represent children.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis Alusi Figure, made of Iroko wood, stands in frontal position on heavy feet in non-naturalistic form, legs slightly spread, arms symmetrically arranged to the sides, free from the torso, forearms stretched forward, open hands with palms facing the sky, elongated neck with the head sitting on top, very straight chin line with mouth facing forward, Ichi Scarification deeply incised on the temples and forehead, repeated application of chalk or redwood causes encrustation of the surface.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the past, these Deities were worshipped every Four Days. The Village Priest made Offerings in the form of food and drink in a Ceremony attended by the Village Elders and Leaders. The Offerings included chalk and kola nuts. Sometimes poultry, goats or sheep were also sacrificed. The “chaff”, i.e. the bodies of the sacrificed animals, served as a feast for these Deities, as the blood was said to be the preferred food of the Deities Themselves. During the annual “Feast of the Images”, village women painted and redecorated the Figures.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn some areas, the various Figures were scattered around the Community and housed in different Tribal Shrines, but were brought together annually for  Festivals. On these occasions, up to twenty or thirty Effigies are gathered, surrounded by or adorned with title insignia such as staffs, caps, eagle feathers and jewelry. Worshippers place cola, chalk and coins at the feet of the Figures.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Guardian Figures are led through the Village as a Sign of Respect. At the end of the Ceremony, the Figures are returned to their “Homes”, Shrines and Compounds.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLit.: Igbo Arts: Community and Cosmos: Herbert M.Cole, Chike Cyril Aniakor; Igbo Monumental Sculptures From Nigeria: Bernard de Grunne; The Spirituality of the Igbo People of Nigeria as an Example of Religious Modernization in a Global World: Henry Chukwudi Okeke; Niger Ibos: A Description of the Primitive Life, Customs and Animistic Beliefs of the Ibo People of Nigeria: George Thomas Basden.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118693855317,"sku":"#192","price":3900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/African_Igbo_Female_Alusi_Shrine_Figure2.webp?v=1654913644"},{"product_id":"african-igbo-alusi-shrine-figure-nigeria","title":"Igbo Male Alusi Shrine Figure, Nigeria #191 PROVENANCE","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIgbo Male Alusi Shrine Figure, Nigeria #191\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: 47'' x 10.25'' x 9'' (119 x 26 x 23 cm).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eProvenance: Ex collection Sidney and Gae Berman collected in 1960's\u003cbr\u003eA Male Igbo Alusi Figure in an unusually large size.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlusi are known as Protective Deities among the Igbo People. Alusi Spirits serve as Protectors of a particular person, group of people, place, gender or profession, according to the Igbo understanding and belief.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlusi are believed to be the children or representatives of the High God Chuku. Sometimes depicted as life-size wooden figures, their Powers bring about good fortune or destruction.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHoused in elaborate enclosures, they are used to preside over Rituals. The largest figures in the shrine are “Married Couples”, male and female large figures, smaller figures represent children.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis Alusi Figure, made of Iroko wood, stands in frontal position on heavy feet in non-naturalistic form, legs slightly spread, arms symmetrically arranged to the sides, free from the torso, forearms stretched forward, open hands with palms facing the sky, elongated neck with the head sitting on top, very straight chin line with mouth facing forward, Ichi Scarification deeply incised on the temples and forehead, repeated application of chalk or redwood causes encrustation of the surface.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the past, these Deities were worshipped every Four Days. The Village Priest made Offerings in the form of food and drink in a Ceremony attended by the Village Elders and Leaders. The Offerings included chalk and kola nuts. Sometimes poultry, goats or sheep were also sacrificed. The “chaff”, i.e. the bodies of the sacrificed animals, served as a feast for these Deities, as the blood was said to be the preferred food of the Deities Themselves.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDuring the annual “Feast of the Images”, village women painted and redecorated the Figures.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn some Igbo areas, the various Figures were scattered around the Community and housed in different Tribal Shrines, but were brought together annually for  Festivals. On these occasions, up to twenty or thirty Effigies are gathered, surrounded by or adorned with title insignia such as staffs, caps, eagle feathers and jewelry. Worshippers place cola, chalk and coins at the feet of the Figures.\u003cbr\u003eThe Guardian Figures are led through the City as a Sign of Respect. At the end of the Ceremony, the Figures are returned to their “Homes”, Shrines and Compounds.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLit.: Igbo Arts: Community and Cosmos: Herbert M.Cole, Chike Cyril Aniakor; Igbo Monumental Sculptures From Nigeria: Bernard de Grunne; The Spirituality of the Igbo People of Nigeria as an Example of Religious Modernization in a Global World: Henry Chukwudi Okeke; Niger Ibos: A Description of the Primitive Life, Customs and Animistic Beliefs of the Ibo People of Nigeria: George Thomas Basden.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118695985237,"sku":"#191","price":3900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/African_Igbo_Alusi_Shrine_Figure2.webp?v=1654913658"},{"product_id":"dan-mask","title":"Dan Dean Gle Mask, Côte d'Ivoire #99","description":"\u003cdiv\u003eDan Dean Gle Mask, Côte d'Ivoire #99\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eMeasurements: 10\" high x 5\" wide.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eCondition: Excellent. Age approx Mid to Late 20th Century.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eScholars use the terms Ge and Gle interchangeably to refer both to Dan Masks and to Invisible, Supernatural Spirit Forces that live in the Forest but\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e desire \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eto enter the Civilized World of the Village. The only way they can do this, the Dan believe, is through Masquerade and Ritual Dance.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eIn order for a Gle to be embodied during a Masquerade, an initiated member of a Dan Men's Society must have a dream that reveals the exact nature of the Gle, its intended function, and the Masquerade through which the Gle would manifest. The Council of Elders, once they are told of the dream, decides whether the Masquerade Ensemble should be created for that man to wear and perform.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe wooden Gle Mask is accompanied by a full-body costume constructed of raffia, feathers and fur. It is believed that each Gle Mask has its own personality, preferences, dance and speech patterns and is given a personal name. The wearer of the mask takes on all of these qualities during the Masquerade. Having come from the dark, mysterious Realm of the Forest, a Gle Mask attached to a Spirit is believed to be unpredictable. Therefore, an attendant always accompanies the Gle Masquerader to control it and interpret its speech. \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGle can be divided into two categories: that of Dean Gle, which is a gentle, peaceful Gle Mask without a gender, but whose qualities are thought of as Feminine.The other category is that of Bu Gle, which is the War Gle named after the sound of a gunshot, whose qualities are thought of as Masculine.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThe Dean Gle Mask represents an Idealized Version of Dan Beauty. It is characterized by narrow eyes, an oval shape face, a smooth forehead, and a mouth slightly open, sometimes to expose inserted teeth. Dean Gle's functions are to teach, entertain and nurture.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eBu Gle masks are designed to frighten. Their eyes are depicted as protruding tubes and the surface of the face has boldly projecting angles. The most powerful Bu Gle masks are decorated with animal and Ritual \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003edeposits\/ attachments such a bone and fur.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118720397397,"sku":"#99-L103","price":475.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/vk08t1ng.jpg?v=1656801374"},{"product_id":"mende-fertility-doll","title":"Salampasu Female Guardian Figure \/ Nkisi, DRC \/ Angola #106","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSalampasu Guardian Figure, DRC \/ Angola #106\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: 19.5\" high x 5\" wide.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Salampasu live in rural villages on the frontier between the DRC and Angola. Their name means “hunter of locusts,” and they are regarded by their neighbors as fierce warriors. While the Salampasu are involved in hunting and farming, they are best known for their elaborate masks, which hold great significance in their sacred rituals as warriors. These masks are used to initiate boys into the society of warriors and are earned through performing specific deeds. The masks also act as guardians for the children and are believed to have spirits dwelling within them. There are no known believers or churches among the Salampasu.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWomen are involved in some farming, but the Salampasu depend mostly on the hunting done by the men. The only art they produce are masks, which are important in their rites and sacred concepts.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe TRIBAL AFRICAN ART website provides more on the Salampasu culture, in explaining the role of masks in the traditional society:\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBoys were initiated into the warriors’ society through a circumcision camp, and then rose through its ranks by gaining access to a hierarchy of masks. Earning the right to wear a mask involved performing specific deeds and large payments of livestock, drink and other material goods. ... Salampasu masquerades were held in wooden enclosures decorated with anthropomorphic figures carved in relief.\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118723280981,"sku":"#106-L240","price":992.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/zgv2s4qp.jpg?v=1659732351"},{"product_id":"makonde-ancestral-ceremonial-stool-tanzania-107","title":"Makonde Ancestral Ceremonial Stool, Tanzania #107","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMakonde Ancestral Ceremonial Stool, Tanzania #107\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: 11.5\" high x 12\" wide\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFine Heavy wood with a great patina and much wear and Ritual Use\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCarved with Ancestral Female and Male Figures with extensive scarification traditional to Makonde Peoples in Tanzania.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118741467221,"sku":"#107 Makonde Ancestral Ceremonial Stool","price":1800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/f5mhbfxr.jpg?v=1656864300"},{"product_id":"lega-mask","title":"Lega Bwami Initiation Society Mask, Congo #98","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLega Bwami Society Mask, Congo #98\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements: 14.5\" high x 7\" wide.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLega \"masks\" fall into the category of Bwami initiation objects. The Lega further divide them into five types according to\u003cbr\u003ematerial, size, and form: lukwakongo, kayam-ba, idimu, muminia, and lukungu (Biebuyck 1973,164). They serve as an\u003cbr\u003eimportant mark of rank, identifying the owners as members of specific Bwami levels (Biebuyck 1986,125-26).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContrary to the Lega mask categories based on form and material, most Western definitions of masks are based on\u003cbr\u003efunction. \"Mask\" describes an object that covers the face and transforms the wearer. Using this definition, the Lega have\u003cbr\u003every few, if any, true masks. Most of what we know as Lega \"masks\" are sculptures of a human face that are rarely worn\u003cbr\u003eover the face and never for purposes of true transformation (Biebuyck 1993,190).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLike many initiation objects, the Lega mask can be assigned different uses and meanings depending on the context of the\u003cbr\u003eperformance (Biebuyck 1954,113). In Bwami ceremonies, masks are attached to different parts of the body, piled in\u003cbr\u003estacks, hung on fences, displayed, dragged on the ground, and occasionally worn on the forehead with the beard draping\u003cbr\u003eover the face of the wearer (figs. 9.1-9.5; Biebuyck 1973,167-68; 1994, 42). The small wooden lukwakongo masks, for\u003cbr\u003eexample, are rarely worn on the face. Instead Bwami members attach them to their arms, the sides of their heads, or their\u003cbr\u003eforeheads; they hang them on fences, as noted above; or they hold them in their hands. To facilitate presenting the\u003cbr\u003ehandheld masks, artists carve handles on their backs (figs. 9.6-9.12).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe sculpture, or \"mask,\" manipulated by a senior Bwami member can assume the roles of many different characters\u003cbr\u003eduring performances. The Bwami member can be compared to a puppeteer and the mask to a puppet. Characterization\u003cbr\u003eoccurs around the mask, but the puppeteer is not transformed. For lack of a better term, however, I will continue the\u003cbr\u003eestablished tradition and use \"mask\" to refer to these masklike sculptures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInterestingly, Lega masks differ from Western definitions as well as from masks used in many other African masquerade\u003cbr\u003etraditions in that while women do not own them, both men and women handle and present them in very similar\u003cbr\u003eperformances. Biebuyck gives several descriptions of women using different masks, including idimu and lukwakongo\u003cbr\u003e(1986,133,145,149,175). He stresses that the only mask a woman uses is the one belonging to her high-ranking husband\u003cbr\u003e(Biebuyck 1994, 50). One account describes women with masks over their faces:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe masks appeared about five o'clock the next morning. A row of kalonda women emerged from behind the houses.\u003cbr\u003eEach woman, cloaked in white bark cloth (hung over the head like a hood but leaving the face visible), wore a small mask\u003cbr\u003eaffixed to her cap high against the forehead, the beard falling to the lower part of the face. Moving silently and slowly, in\u003cbr\u003ebent or crouched position, the women reached the dance ground and sat down on stools in a line, facing a feather rope\u003cbr\u003etied between two poles. Only the most senior initiated wife of each yananio present wore her husband's mask. The women\u003cbr\u003ewere alternately identified as the Big-Ones-Who-Are-In-(the village called) Harmony, Big-Ones-Who-Are-Nice, and\u003cbr\u003eBig-Ones-Who-Are-Well-Prepared (for the ceremonies). They are also referred to as the \"row of Nyakamuno,\" which in\u003cbr\u003ethis context meant women called together for serious business. [Biebuyck 1986,133]\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven though the women wear the masks with a costume and the beard draped over their faces, no transformation occurs,\u003cbr\u003eand they act out characters as women and men regularly do in Bwami performances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA concept that unites many of these masklike sculptures is the portrayal and importance of ancestors. The names of\u003cbr\u003eseveral of the mask forms refer to death: \"lukungu, skull; lukwakongo, death gathers in; idimu, ancestor\" (Biebuyck\u003cbr\u003e1954,113). Masks are among the initiation objects displayed on the grave before being passed to new owners. When the\u003cbr\u003enext member of the owner's lineage reaches the appropriate level, he is given the mask (Biebuyck 1953C, 1078-79;\u003cbr\u003e1986,131; 1954,111-13; 1973. 211-13). Thus Bwami members pass masks down through many generations, and the\u003cbr\u003ehistory of each piece is carefully remembered. With objects that specifically represent Kindi, such as the ivory lukungu\u003cbr\u003emask, the genealogy is especially strong. The proverb \"On ivory, mushrooms do not grow\" compares ivory to a man's\u003cbr\u003eskeleton, suggesting the former's ability to serve as a permanent, durable memory of previous owners (Biebuyck\u003cbr\u003e1973,174). The reference to the mask as a skull, the association of ivory with human remains, and the connection of the\u003cbr\u003emask and the grave all stress continuity. These masks connect the past and the present, creating an un-broken chain of\u003cbr\u003eancestors (Biebuyck 1973, 104-5; 1976,339)\u003cbr\u003eSource: Art of the Lega\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin is Democratic Republic of the Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118761128021,"sku":"","price":2400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/stgqejok.jpg?v=1656974999"},{"product_id":"punu-mask","title":"Punu Maiden Mask Ikwara, Gabon #103","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ePunu Maiden Mask Ikwara, Gabon #103\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements: 11\" high x 5.25\" wide\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe top \"crown\" above the beautifully carved face would have had human hair gently tacked into the surface to intensify the \"humanity\" of this Mask.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHigh weathered but traces of red, black and white Ritually applied before the Mask's last Ceremonial use still remain.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eCirca 19409-50's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlack Punu Masks are Rare: While most are white in pigmentation\/ painting, black-colored Punu Masks (Ikwaras) exist, generally representing Judicial or Protective Functions during Illnesses or Witchcraft-related Issues.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlack Punu masks were believed linked to a Judiciary Process such as searching for Witches, an Enquiry into a Crime, or a Trial by Poison.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAccording to Louis Perrois, the category \"masks with black painted faces\" make up about 8% of the corpus of the Punu Masks. The black-faced Masks represent Angry Spirits, and are therefore considered potentially dangerous to handle them. According to Perrois (1979: 235) black patina on Punu masks is presumably an index of its more serious or darker role in Judiciary Services, potentially Condemning the Living, whereas Punu Masks layered in white kaolin are used in Celebrations and Funerary Ceremonies.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePunu Masks from Gabon, known as Mukudj (Mukudji or Mukuyi—the names of the Ceremonies at which they appear and the Stilt Dances associated with them), represent an Idealized Female Ancestor, symbolizing beauty, serenity, and the Spirit World. White kaolin-covered faces signify the Afterlife, and Ancestral Wisdom. Worn by male stilt-dancers, these Masks mediate between the Living and Dead, often in Funeral or Celebratory contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKey Symbolism and Meaning of Punu Masks\u003cbr\u003eIdealized Female Ancestor: Representing the \"Most Beautiful Women\", these Masks feature high-domed foreheads, elaborate coiffures, and diamond-shaped scarification (lozenge-shaped) on the forehead\/ temples.\u003cbr\u003eWhite Kaolin Clay: The white pigment, derived from local riverbeds, symbolizes Peace, the Afterlife and Spirits of the Dead.\u003cbr\u003eSerenity and Inner Vision: The eyes are usually half-closed, reflecting Meditation, Inner Peace, and a connection to the Spiritual Realm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCultural Identity: Today, these Masks are recognized as a key emblem of Punu Identity and were sometimes displayed in Villages for their Cultural Significance.\u003cbr\u003eThe masks typically feature a heart-shaped face with a small, pointed chin and are crafted from wood, often accompanied by elaborate costumes of fiber or raffia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe creator of a \"Mukudj\" Mask would attempt to capture the likeness of the most beautiful woman in his Community. The Subject of this particular idealized and stylized portrait was embellished in classic nineteenth-century fashion with a coiffure composed of a central lobe and two lateral tresses and with cicatrization motifs on the forehead and temples. Kaolin taken from riverbeds, which was associated with healing and with a Spiritual, Ancestral Realm of Existence, was applied to the surface of the face. By using this material, the Artist both celebrated the Beauty of a Mortal Woman and transformed her likeness into a Transcendent Being.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePunu Masks were only worn by male members of the Mwiri society, who dance on tall stilts on the occasion of Celebrations marking the end of Mourning, and more generally at important social events in the life of a Community. Their joyful, acrobatic walkabout performances are reminiscent of their former role as initiators and guarantors of social order, the cleanliness of community spaces, and even the moral behavior of the inhabitants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin is Gabon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118779871317,"sku":"#103-L166","price":1625.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/uq817s54.jpg?v=1659730381"},{"product_id":"lega-mask-1","title":"Lega Bwami Idimu Mask, DR Congo #100","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eLega Bwami Idimu Mask, DR Congo #100\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements: 11\" high x 7.5\"wide.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis type of Mask was used as part of the Cult of the Bwami, an Association that organized the Social Structure and ensured the Stability of the Lega Community.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the Provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOrigins : Democratic Republic of Congo.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaterial : Wood. Heavy Patina of Kaolin Ritual Clay. Unusual and Powerful Square-shape Eyes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements: Without Base is 11 Inches high\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCirca 1920-30's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition: Excellent. Fine Kaolin Ritual Clay Patina with traces of long term heavy use and care.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIron Base included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118817554517,"sku":"#100 - Lega Bwami Idimu Mask","price":2250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/LegaMask_5703f74e-1a57-4a41-aa4a-fead6604c16e.webp?v=1654913818"},{"product_id":"punu-mask-2","title":"Punu Mukudj Mask, Gabon #180","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePunu Mukudj Mask, Gabon #180\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGood condition with slight clear traces of wear and tear.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: \u003cspan\u003e38×15×13 cm; 15\" x 6\" x 5\"\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePunu Masks from Gabon, known as Mukudj (Mukudji or Mukuyi—the names of the Ceremonies at which they appear and the Stilt Dances associated with them), represent an Idealized Female Ancestor, symbolizing beauty, serenity, and the Spirit World. White kaolin-covered faces signify the Afterlife, and Ancestral Wisdom. Worn by male stilt-dancers, these Masks mediate between the Living and Dead, often in Funeral or Celebratory contexts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKey Symbolism and Meaning of Punu Masks\u003cbr\u003eIdealized Female Ancestor: Representing the \"Most Beautiful Women\", these Masks feature high-domed foreheads, elaborate coiffures, and diamond-shaped scarification (lozenge-shaped) on the forehead\/ temples.\u003cbr\u003eWhite Kaolin Clay: The white pigment, derived from local riverbeds, symbolizes Peace, the Afterlife and Spirits of the Dead.\u003cbr\u003eSerenity and Inner Vision: The eyes are usually half-closed, reflecting Meditation, Inner Peace, and a connection to the Spiritual Realm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack Masks (Rare): While most are white in pigmentation\/ painting, black-colored Punu masks (Ikwaras) exist, generally representing Judicial or Protective Functions during Illnesses or Witchcraft-related Issues.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBlack Punu masks were believed linked to a Judiciary Process such as searching for Witches, an Enquiry into a Crime, or a Trial by Poison.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording to Louis Perrois, the category \"masks with black painted faces\" make up about 8% of the corpus of the Punu Masks. The black-faced\u003cbr\u003emasks represent Angry Spirits, and are therefore considered potentially dangerous to handle them. According to Perrois (1979: 235) the\u0026amp;nbsp;black patina on Punu masks is presumably an index of its more serious or darker role in Judiciary Services, potentially Condemning the\u0026amp;nbsp;Living, whereas Punu Masks layered in white kaolin are used in Celebrations and Funerary Ceremonies.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCultural Identity: Today, these Masks are recognized as a key emblem of Punu Identity and were sometimes displayed in Villages for their Cultural Significance.\u003cbr\u003eThe masks typically feature a heart-shaped face with a small, pointed chin and are crafted from wood, often accompanied by elaborate costumes of fiber or raffia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe creator of a \"Mukudj\" Mask would attempt to capture the likeness of the most beautiful woman in his Community. The Subject of this particular idealized and stylized portrait was embellished in classic nineteenth-century fashion with a coiffure composed of a central lobe and two lateral tresses and with cicatrization motifs on the forehead and temples. Kaolin taken from riverbeds, which was associated with healing and with a Spiritual, Ancestral Realm of Existence, was applied to the surface of the face. By using this material, the Artist both celebrated the Beauty of a Mortal Woman and transformed her likeness into a Transcendent Being.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePunu Masks were only worn by male members of the Mwiri society, who dance on tall stilts on the occasion of Celebrations marking the end of Mourning, and more generally at important social events in the life of a Community. Their joyful, acrobatic walkabout performances are reminiscent of their former role as initiators and guarantors of social order, the cleanliness of community spaces, and even the moral behavior of the inhabitants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrigin is Gabon\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118824796245,"sku":"#180-L178","price":1675.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/14i7m40k.jpg?v=1659729661"},{"product_id":"idoma-wooden-shrine-figure","title":"Idoma Reliquary Shrine Figure, Nigeria #186","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdoma Wooden Shrine Figure, Nigeria #186\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePowerful standing Shrine Reliquary with an open \"box\" compartment in the Back of the Figure which would have been used to store Bones, Herbs, and other Ritual Materials important to \"Activate\" the Figure's Powers, most likely for Healing and Maternity Health and Fertility.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: Good with traces of Tribal Use and Care.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eShrine Figures represent Ancestors who provide protection, healing and good fortune in return for respect, sacrificial food and adherence to their rules. The placemnent of the Figures Hands and Reproductive Area hands are indicative of being a Female Shrine Figure dealing with Pregnancy Issues and Health.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003e51 × 16 × 12cm\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118827253845,"sku":"","price":2100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/IdomaShrineFigure4.webp?v=1654913867"},{"product_id":"ewe-fon-anago-twin-figure-togo-benin","title":"Ewe Venavi Twin Figure, Togo #184","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cul data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEwe \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVenavi \u003c\/span\u003eTwin Figure, Togo #184\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eStatuettes destined to the cult of twins. Among the Ewe these representations are named Venavi, whereas they are named Hohovi among the Fon.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ewe live in a coastal area which extends through Ghana, Togo, Benin, until the Nigerian borders.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThey practice twin worship, very similar to that of the Yoruba, and it is in this context that these statuettes are crafted, in very varied styles sometimes, depending on the influences of their neighbors (the Akan, in Ghana, the Yoruba in Nigeria...).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e18×5×3 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eConidition: Fair; Wonderful ancient patina.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40118890725461,"sku":"#184-C141","price":392.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/g1ldfwo3.jpg?v=1657413275"},{"product_id":"nkisi-figure-yombe-tribe-congo","title":"Yombe Nkisi Nkonde \"Nail Fetish\" Guardian Figure, DRC \/ Congo #176","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYombe Nkisi Nkonde \"Nail Fetish\" Guardian Figure, DRC \/ Congo #176\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNkisi\u003c\/strong\u003e or Nkishi (plural varies: Minkisi, Zinkisi, or Nkisi) \u003cstrong\u003eare Spirits or an Object that a Spirit inhabits.\u003c\/strong\u003e This title is frequently applied to a variety of Objects used throughout the Congo Basin in Central Africa that are believed to contain Spiritual Powers or Spirits themselves.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNkondi\u003c\/strong\u003e (plural forms Minkondi, Zinkondi) are a subclass of Minkisi that are considered aggressive. Because many of the Nkondi collected in the 19th Century \u003cstrong\u003ewere activated by having nails driven into them\u003c\/strong\u003e, they were often called \"Nail Fetishes\" in travel writing, Museum Catalogs, and Art History literature. \u003cstrong\u003eMany Nkondi also feature reflective surfaces, such as mirrors, on their stomach areas or the eyes, which are held to be the Means of Vision in the Spirit World\u003c\/strong\u003e. Although they can be made in many forms, the ones featuring a human statue with nails are the best described in Anthropological and Scholarly Literature.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eNkondi\u003c\/strong\u003e are invoked to Search out Wrongdoing, Enforce Oaths, and Cause or Cure Sicknesses. Perhaps the most common use was the Locating and Punishing of Criminals, by hunting down Wrongdoers and to Avenging their Crimes. An Oath Taker may declare him or herself vulnerable to the disease caused by an Nkondi should he or she violate the Oath. People who fall sick with diseases known to be associated with a particular Nkondi may need to consult the \u003cstrong\u003eNganga\u003c\/strong\u003e responsible for mediating with that Spirit to determine how to be cured.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn the Kingdom of Kongo, the term \"\u003cstrong\u003eNganga\u003c\/strong\u003e\" was the name for a Village Shaman\/ Herbalist\/ Healer who possessed the Skill to communicate with the Other World, as well as Divining the cause of illness, misfortune and social stress and preparing measures to address them, often by Supernatural Means but sometimes Natural Medicine as well. \u003cstrong\u003eNganga\u003c\/strong\u003e were also responsible for charging Nkisi, or Physical Objects intended to be the Receptacle for Spiritual Forces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlthough \u003cstrong\u003eNkisi Nkondi\u003c\/strong\u003e have probably been made since at least the 16th Century, the specifically Nailed Figures, which have been the object of collection in Western Museums, nailed Nkondi were probably made primarily in the Northern parts of the Kongo Cultural Zone from the19th up until Late 20th Centuries.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Wood, Nails\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePowerful Nail Fetish Figure from the Yombe Ethnic Group of DR Congo.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA \"Nkisi\" Figure refers to the Spiritual Nature of the figure where Nkondi refers to the Power of the Figure itself. Spiritual and Religious Specialists – along with these Figures – become the Village Protector, Legal Expert, Healer of the Sick, Revengers of Wrongdoing, and are even able to End Disasters.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis particular Nkisi Nkondi, gets it power from medicinal substances put in attachments and \"bundles\" on the Figure's body. Such medicines attract the Spirit Power and – in turn – the Power is used on behalf of the owner or client of the figure. The power can be either negative or positive.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEach nail represents a Restitution Oath, an Agreement, Episode in the Village History, or the number of Crimes involved in the Revenge.\u003cbr\u003eGood condition with traces of wear and tear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e54×20×18 cm\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40119894442069,"sku":"#176-LJ171","price":2425.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/NkisiFigure5.webp?v=1659727889"},{"product_id":"bakongo-wooden-figure-congo","title":"Yombe \/ Kongo Nkisi Power Warrior Figure, Congo #178","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYombe \/ Kongo Nkisi Power Warrior Figure, Congo #178 \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eExcellent. The fetish has a good aged patina with eyes from glass. Good condition with traces of wear and Ritual Use.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003ePeriod: 2nd half 20th Century\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: 26×9×9cm; 10\" x 3.5\" x 3.5\"\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdditional Information: The Vili , the Lâri, the Sûndi, the Woyo, the Bembé, the Bwende, the Yombé, and the Kôngo formed the Kôngo group, led by the King Ntotela . Their kingdom reached its peak in the 16th Century with the ivory and copper trade and the slave trade. With the same Beliefs and Traditions, they produced Statuary with codified gestures related to their worldview. The Kakongo are composed of Bakongo Peoples from the left bank of the Zaire River. Sorcerers and Nganga, both Healers, were in charge of Religious Activities and Mediation towards the God called Nzambi through Consecrated Figures. To this end, Individual Protective Figures called Nkisis, to protect against witchcraft and various plagues, are made and loaded by the Nganga with all the necessary ingredients to achieve this purpose.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSacred Medicines and Divine Protection are central to the Belief of the Kongo Peoples (Democratic Republic of Congo). The Kongo believe that the Great God, Ne Kongo, brought the first Sacred Medicine (or Nkisi) down from heaven in an earthenware vessel set upon three stones or termite mounds.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA Nkisi (plural: Minkisi) is loosely translated as a \"Spirit\" yet it is represented as a container of Sacred Substances which are activated by Supernatural Forces that can be summoned into the Physical World. Visually, these Minkisi can be as simple as pottery or vessels containing medicinal herbs and other elements determined to be beneficial in curing physical illness or alleviating social ills. In other instances, Minkisi can be represented as small bundles, shells, and carved wooden figures. Minkisi represent the ability to both ‘contain’ and ‘release’ Spiritual Forces which can have both positive and negative consequences on the community.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNkisi Nkondi\u003cbr\u003eA fascinating example of a Nkisi can be found in a Power Figure called Nkisi Nkondi (a Power Figure is a Magical Charm seemingly carved in the likeness of human being, meant to highlight its function in human affairs.). A Nkisi Nkondi can act as an Oath Taking Image which is used to resolve Verbal Disputes or Lawsuits (Mambu) as well as an Avenger (the term Nkondi means ‘Hunter’) or Guardian if Sorcery or any form of Evil has been committed. These Minkisi are wooden figures representing a human or animal such as a dog (Nkisi Kozo) carved under the Divine Authority and in consultation with an Nganga or Spiritual Specialist who activates these figures through chants, prayers and the preparation of sacred substances which are aimed at ‘curing’ physical, social or spiritual ailments.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInsertions: Nkisi Nkondi Figures are highly recognizable through an accumulation of pegs, blades, nails or other sharp objects inserted into its surface. Medicinal Combinations called Bilongo are sometimes stored in the head of the figure but frequently in the belly of the figure which is shielded by a piece of glass, mirror or other reflective surface. The glass represents the ‘Other World’ inhabited by the Spirits of the Dead who can peer through and see potential enemies. Elements with a variety of purposes are contained within the Bilongo. Seeds may be inserted to tell a spirit to replicate itself; Mpemba or white soil deposits found near Cemeteries represent and enlist support from the Spiritual Realm. Claws may incite the Spirits to grasp something while stones may activate the Spirits to pelt enemies or protect one from being pelted.\u003cbr\u003eThe insertions are driven into the figure by the Nganga and represent the Mambu and the type or degree of severity of an issue can be suggested through the material itself. A peg may refer to a matter being ‘settled’ whereas a nail, deeply inserted may represent a more serious offense such as murder. Prior to insertion, opposing parties or clients, often lick the blades or nails, to seal the function or purpose of the Nkisi through their saliva. If an Oath is broken by one of the parties or evil befalls one of them, the Nkisi Nkondi will become activated to carry out its Mission of Destruction or Divine Protection.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEuropeans may have encountered these objects during expeditions to the Congo as early as the 15th Century. However, several of these “fetish” objects, as they were often termed, were confiscated by missionaries in the late 19th Century and were destroyed as evidence of sorcery or heathenism. Nevertheless, several were collected as objects of fascination and even as an object of study of Kongo Culture. Kongo Traditions such as those of the Nkisi Nkondi have survived over the centuries and migrated to the Americas and the Caribbean via Afro-Atlantic Religious Practices such as Vodun, Palo Monte, and Macumba. Nonetheless, Minkisi have left an indelible imprint as visually provocative Figures of Spiritual Importance and Protection.\u003cbr\u003eEssay by Dr. Shawnya Harris\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40119895326805,"sku":"#178-L87","price":1092.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/Bakongo8.webp?v=1655085912"},{"product_id":"bulu-ngil-monkey-figure-cameroon-188","title":"Bulu Ngil Monkey Figure, Cameroon #188","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBulu Monkey Figure, Cameroon #188\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA particularly good monkey figure, depicting with great accuracy the animal’s posture.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Bulu, a tribe from southern Cameroon, belongs to the Fang-Beti ethnic group, known for its magnificent statues.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNgil is the gorilla, a mighty animal, that identifies candidates following initiation into the secret society. Nice aged patina with traces of tribal use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003ePeriod: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSecond half 20th century\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition: Good with traces of wear\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements: 52×19×18 cm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe simian sculptures of the equatorial forests of West Africa have intrigued scholars and attracted collectors for years. Though they come in many forms, there is little factual information on their purpose. The most famous of these, the Cameroon gorilla effigies of the Bulu, are among the most prized objects in African art. The cultures of the Cameroon Grasslands also produce these dramatic pieces. If one looks at the historical interaction between humans and the rare lowland gorillas of the Congo and Equatorial Basins, the purpose of the carvings becomes rather clear. The animals have long been feared throughout their range, though there is scant evidence of attacks on humans. Also, their meat is prized and their body parts, alas, have been used by diviners and herbalists for a variety of purposes. The effigies appear to be purely protective in nature since the animal has always been considered a threat. It is possible that the use of the gorilla figure might be specific, or perhaps have general protective uses against all forest spirits. This would be one explanation at least. Today, fortunately, education and eco-tourism are beginning to reverse the trend of treating the lowland gorilla as a menace. Though it may continue to be exploited, at least it will be given the chance to survive. Due to the impenetrable density of the forest, there are few estimates of the present population of lowland gorillas.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40119898570837,"sku":"#188-L176","price":725.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/MonkeyFigure.webp?v=1655085930"},{"product_id":"bakongo-mask-congo","title":"Kongo \/ Bakongo Mask, Congo #181","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKongo \/ Bakongo Mask, Congo #181\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Beads, Bone, Glass, Nail, Wood \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePowerful mask made of bone and wood from the Bakongo tribe of DR Congo.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStretching across the coasts of Gabon and the D.R. of Congo, the VILI, also called Loango, are famous for their artistic diversity.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAlong with their neighbors, the Yombe, the Bakongo people had face Masks that were associated with the Spirit World. They were less common than their better known Fetish or Power Figures, but some Masks share the Magic Cavities and inserted Sacred Pastes or Bundles as those figures.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGood condition with a beautiful patina of use. Contains clear traces of wear and tear.\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40119905091669,"sku":"#181-LJ197","price":892.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/en92jirg.jpg?v=1657501309"},{"product_id":"kwele-ekuk-bata-mask-gabon","title":"Kwele Ekuk Bata Mask, Gabon #142","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKwele Ekuk Bata Mask for Beete Ceremonies, Gabon #142 \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKnown as \"Ekuk\" or \"Things of the Forest\" this genre of Mask act as Intermediaries between the Forest and the Village. Additionally, the gentle curving horns of the \"Bata\" mask are understood to be a metaphor for the Cosmic Unification of those two Realms. Though their dance is characterized as Human, \"Ekuk\" have fantastical attributes: trunks, beaks, or horns. Often painted white, a color the Kwele associate with Light and Clarity the \"Ekuk\" are portrayed as possessing the Clairvoyance necessary to Fight Witchcraft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis Ram, or \"Bata,\" Mask is an example of the boldly designed reductive stylization of a highly inventive Kwele sculptor. The slitted almond-shaped eyes are set in a concave diamond face within a recessed heart-shaped frame. The face is whitened with kaolin and framed by the curved arcs of a pair of animal horns that emerge from the crown of the head and meet at the base of the chin. Working with a seemingly flat representation, the artist has skillfully drawn upon the use of alternating negative and positive spaces and faceted surfaces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIn Kwele villages, Rituals known as \"Beete\" are enacted at Times of Crisis in order to mobilize the Powers of the Ancestors. The skulls of important deceased Family Members are preserved to combat the Negative Forces that threatened to destroy a Community with famine, disease, or war. \"Beete\" is a multiple-day festivity, which culminates in the Communal consumption of a medicinal stew, which has been activated by the \"heat\" of the dancing and singing of the \"Ekuk\" Masks and Villagers.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: 50×32×11 cm\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: Very Good.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAge: Mid to Late 20th Century\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin is Gabon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40119905976405,"sku":"-L150","price":3200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/riayhkvp.jpg?v=1657502032"},{"product_id":"bakongo-wooden-fetish-figure","title":"Yombe \/ Kongo Nkisi Power Figure, Congo #179","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYombe \/ Kongo \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNkisi Power Figure\u003c\/span\u003e, Congo #179\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine Nkisi Power Figure from the Yombe \/ Kongo People of DR Congo.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: The Figure has a powerful appearance with a good aged patina with traces of tribal use.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThis figure exhibits a sensitive combination of expressionism and pathos. Kongo Power Figures, Nkisi, were used in cooperation with a Spiritual Healer, Nganga, to invoke positive and negative forces on behalf of a client seeking his services. The Power invested in the Figure could either relieve the family of a burden or, in turn, place a burden on one's enemies. The stance, with hand on hip, together with the upturned head, is a typical gesture displaying confrontation and confidence. The Nganga would Magically Charge the Figure with various effective materials, creating a series of accumulations over time. \u003cstrong\u003eThe bundle at the abdomen, for instance, incorporated 'a Mirror of Mystic Vision, indicating the Ritual Expert's Power to see \"beyond the glassy surface of the river, or the sea [beneath which the underworld lies\" to penetrate the Secrets of the Dead' (Thompson in Vogel 1981: 210). \u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe right hand of the Nkondi is especially stylized. The circle formed by the fingers represents the World; the upraised thumb indicates the Realm of\u003cbr\u003eHeaven. Like the thumbs-down gesture of ancient Rome, it was a sign of doom for the convicted felon or the guilty party to a trial, meaning \"Sky and\u003cbr\u003eWorld are now against you.\" The world of the convicted felon would soon be pierced, even as the fingers often circled round a lance or dagger. Equally interesting are the pinpoint pupils. These form what might be termed an Ocular Gesture, meaning Nkondi views the solutions, and the punishments adhering to the Trials from Afar, from Beyond the Forest, from Beneath the River.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAs Nkondi thinks from this distant source of Ancestral Justice, the pupils of his eyes are said to become small dots, as if carried to a kind of vanishing point, on the horizon between this world and the next.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan\u003eThe small statues, the Nkisi, were less ambitious than the large Nkonde and were designed for the Individual or the Family.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr soft=\"\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eNever more than 40 centimeters tall and without nails, they often had a feathered hat on their head after they had been consecrated by \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ethe Nganga. The fabrics wrapped round them were covered with a crusting of red powder. As with the Nkonde, they had a cavity in their \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eback or stomach which held \"medicines\" and magic substances placed there by the Nganga. These consisted essentially of white clay \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003efrom the marshes, red clay used for ancestor worship, and tukula (sawdust from red wood).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThese Nkisi were supposed to protect their owner's health and transmit to him the vital strength with which they were endowed. The owner could give them offerings to escape from difficult situations. From \"Black Africa\" by Laurie Meyer.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40119909515349,"sku":"#179-L91","price":1000.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/Yombe179-8.jpg?v=1670114252"},{"product_id":"punu-funeral-mask","title":"Punu Mukudj Mask, Gabon #131","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePunu Mukudj Mask, Gabon #131 \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePunu Mukudj Masks represent an Idealized Female Ancestor.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eReferring to a Young Woman's Spirit, the white face, covered with kaolin, symbolized Reincarnation. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSuch masks were worn by virtuosic male performers of a stilt dance called \"Mukudj,\" which involved towering impressively while executing complex choreography and astonishing feats of acrobatics.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKaolin Clay taken from riverbeds, which was associated with Healing and with a Spiritual, Ancestral Realm of Existence, was applied to the surface of the face. By using this material, the artist both celebrated the Beauty of a Mortal Woman and transformed her into a Transcendent Being.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe creator of a \"Mukudj\" Mask would attempt to capture the likeness of the most beautiful woman in his community. The Subject of this particular idealized and stylized Portrait was embellished in classic nineteenth-century fashion with a coiffure composed of a central lobe and two lateral tresses and with cicatrization motifs on the forehead and temples.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterial: Wood\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ePeriod: Mid 20th Century\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Good. Weathered surface most likely repainted several times. Inner Facial Surface exhibits extensive use and wear.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: 28×17×14 cm; 11\" x 6.7\" x  5.5\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOrigin is Gabon\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMask for the Okuyi Society (Mukudj)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThere are iconic artworks such as the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo that have been praised for epitomizing timeless female beauty. Invariably, works of this sort incorporate elements of serene expressions, enigmatic facial features and pleasing proportions – all physical attributes. In other words, much of the focus in western art is found in the physical beauty of the subject and the close resemblance they bear to real life figures; yet elsewhere in the world cultures create art idealizing women’s physical and spiritual qualities. This is the case with many African cultures; and among them the Punu people of Gabon are particularly renowned for their unique masks idealizing feminine beauty.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mask by the Punu people of Gabon, Central Africa\u003cbr\u003e Mask by the Punu people of Gabon, Central Africa;\u003cbr\u003ePRIMITIVE ID# A1200-424\u003cbr\u003eDistinct white masks of the Punu people are called mukudj, although they have also been called other names depending on the region where they were carved. The mukudj can only be carved by a master craftsman who has gone through special initiation rites within the men’s secret society called mwiri. Presumably, the carver’s initiation puts them in touch with the exact qualities they must incorporate into the mask. Every detail of the mask, from the round gentle curves to the elaborate coiffure, arched eyebrows, high cheekbones, full sensuous lips, and white color is meant to reflect a woman’s physical and spiritual perfection. It is the white color – the color the Punu associate with their ancestors and the afterlife – that gives the mask a dimension extending beyond physical beauty alone. The Punu believe ideal feminine beauty is as much a matter of what can’t be seen as opposed to what can; and nothing exemplifies this more than the mukudj mask. It not only represents a beautiful woman, but their ancestor spirits. The mask is nothing less than an intermediary between the living and the dead. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWhat make the mukudj truly memorable are its symbolic elements. The thin slit eyes are meant to express a meditative serenity suggesting inner vision and a link to the world of the ancestors. The white color, derived from kaolin, is associated with the afterlife and spirits of the dead. Consequently, the mask is featured in funeral rites. The scarification marks on the forehead and temples are not just aesthetic marks of sensual beauty. They also contain spiritual significance. The mark is believed by some to represent the nine original clans in Punu creation myths and their various migration paths, which led to the widespread dispersal and use of the mukudj among the Punu as well as other tribes of the region.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Mukudj masks by the Punu people depict white faces, thin slit eyes, and distinctive scarification marks Mukudj masks by the Punu people depict white faces, thin slit eyes, and distinctive scarification marks\u003cbr\u003e Mukudj masks by the Punu people depict white faces, thin slit eyes, and distinctive scarification marks;\u003cbr\u003ePRIMITIVE ID# A1500-051\u003cbr\u003eThe mukudj is worn and danced in an elaborate ceremony involving a skilled dancer standing on stilts that can reach 6 to 10 feet tall. The dancer is trained from childhood and must be initiated in the mwiri. They’re covered head to toe to keep their identity secret; which is an important feature of the mask’s use because it represents an entity greater than the living. The extreme, elevated height of the mask is a direct reference to the mukudj’s power and farsighted vision – the power and vision of the ancestors – and the height at which the mask is danced can be interpreted as the ancestors watching over the living. Although the mukudj mask is closely linked with the afterworld, it is by no means exclusive to funeral rites or solemn occasions. They are also danced for important celebrations such as significant birthdays and childbirth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMukudj mask by the Punu people \u003cbr\u003eThe black Mukudj mask is very mysterious, considered dangerous and often associated with witchcraft;\u003cbr\u003ePRIMITIVE ID# NC1407-003\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eIn contrast to the white mukudj, there also exist black masks. Much less is known about this type of mukudj. Unlike the white masks, black mukudj are associated with evil spirits and witchcraft. Traditionally used for judgments, the black masks are danced at twilight or night on stilts considerably shorter than those used for the white mukudj. While the white masks are celebrated as ancestors returning to protect the people, the black masks are considered dangerous and ominous.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe mukudj are visual representations of what can and cannot be seen. The creation of this mask represents a different point of view than the western concept of realism. In traditional African art, creating exact likenesses is not seen as a complete representation of ‘beauty.’ There is no such thing as lifelike art with striking realism. In short, in traditional African art there is no Mona Lisa. Instead, emphasis is placed on the unseen aspects present in true female beauty. While this may release a figure from having perfect physical proportions, it elevates spiritual relevance to a point far beyond most western works. In the eyes of the Punu people, beauty is more than just curvy hips or athletic bodies. Beauty is represented by inner qualities that we cannot always see. In a sense then, the mukudj is like a third eye giving us the ability to perceive true beauty beyond the physical\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40121934872661,"sku":"#131-LJ165","price":2150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/3vqg4cah.jpg?v=1657504412"},{"product_id":"bulu-male-monkey-figure-cameroon","title":"Bulu Male Monkey Figure, Cameroon","description":"\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBulu Male Monkey Figure, Cameroon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin: Cameroon, Africa\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: 24in x 13in x 11in\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123761393749,"sku":"Bulu Male Monkey Figure, Cameroon","price":3750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/oq1bce7s.jpg?v=1714591870"},{"product_id":"fine-metoko-figure","title":"Metoko Kukungu Female Figure, Congo #173","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMetoko Kukungu Female Figure, Congo #173\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eVery beautiful stylization of the face and the silhouette which aesthetically gives the statue an almost \"robot\" style.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Metoko People are the descendants of Lega migrants settled in the area of the middle Lwalaba, in the heart of the Equatorial Forest. Like the Lega People, their Political and Social Life is organized around a Secret Initiatory Association, the Bukota. The Bukota Society \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003ewelcomes both men and women, and is compared to the Bwami Society of the Lega People. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThey are also culturally very close to their neighbors the Lengola People.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eKakungu Figures, which belong to Bukota Initiates occupying the highest positions of the Village Governing Society, are used during the Initiation Rites and Funerary Rites; the beginnings of Community Life, as well as the End. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThey indicate Rank and Status among Bukota Society Members, and usually represent a Male or Female Ancestor. The term Kakungu symbolizes an old person, full of dignity and power, who has fallen victim to Witchcraft or Ritual Pollution. Adapted from page 382 of \"Treasures of Africa - Tervuren Museum\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Kakungu Figures, often geometric and decorated with incised and sometimes colored spots, played a role in the context of Initiation Ceremonies, and were then placed on the Tombs of High-Ranking Initiates. The two upper grades of Bukota Members, Nkumi and Kasimbi, enjoyed the prerogative of physically holding certain Objects of Worship. (ref.: Art and Life in Africa, Christopher D. Roy)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterial: Wood.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 18\", \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e19 3\/4\" with its base\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCondition: Very good\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eOrigin: Democratic Republic of Congo.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123827683413,"sku":"#173-LJ457","price":2900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/MetokoFigure11.webp?v=1655259306"},{"product_id":"lega-lukwakongo-mask-democratic-republic-of-congo","title":"Lega Lukwakongo Mask, Democratic Republic of Congo","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLega Lukwakongo Mask, \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eDemocratic Republic of Congo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSuperb Lega Lukwakongo Mask\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNice little mask, visibly old, very expressive despite its absence of a mouth, a relatively rare characteristic. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLukwakongo maskettes are small and light wooden masks belonging to high-ranking members of the Bwami (rank Yananio). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used in the cult of the Bwami, a level society whose rites were reserved for the initiates. This association organized the social structure and ensured the stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eestablished mainly in the east of the Congo Drc, east of the Lwalaba River (the Congo River), up to the altitude in the Mitumba Mountains, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOrigins: Democratic Republic of Congo.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterials: Wood, Vegetal fibers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 6 1\/4 Inches high, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e10 inches with the beard\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Excellent with Fine Ritual Patina\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBase is included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123837579349,"sku":"Passport Mask Tall","price":1450.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/3rha74ck.jpg?v=1657590565"},{"product_id":"lega-bwami-idumo-mask","title":"Lega Bwami Idumo Miniature Mask, Congo #46","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Bwami Idumo Miniature Mask, Congo #46\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eThis type of Mask was used as part of the Cult of the Bwami, an Association that organized the Social Structure \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eand ensured the stability of the Lega Community.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the Provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOrigins : Democratic Republic of Congo.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaterial : Wood \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements : approx. 8 3\/4 Inches high\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition: Good. Fine Kaolin Ritual Clay Patina with traces of long term use and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIron Base included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123845705813,"sku":"#46-L418","price":1140.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/vu90pqec-Copy.jpg?v=1657763440"},{"product_id":"lega-kasungalala-the-judge-bwami-figure","title":"Lega Kasungalala (The Judge) Bwami Society Figure, Democratic Republic of Congo #53","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Kasungalala (The Judge) Bwami Figure, Congo #53 \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLega People Bwami Figure (Iginga). Rare.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis Iginga, named Kasungalala, has always raised arm(s). This carving illustrates the Kindi's Privilege of Serving as Arbiter in Quarrels and Feuds in the Village or Community.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA similar item is held in the Fine Arts Museum of San Francisco Collections (1986.16.5)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese Statuettes generically called Igingawere used in the Cult Society of Bwami, an Association that organized the Social Structure and Ensured the Stability of the Lega Community. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu Forest People of Central Africa, established in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eProvinces.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAge: Mid 20th Century. Authentic. Good patina and traces of wear and use.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: Approx. 12 inches high.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Medium. At one time in the \"Judge's\" storied past, the Figure's arms were broken and reattached.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eOrigin: Democratic Republic of Congo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123862843477,"sku":"#53-LJ750","price":1900.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/Kasungalala2.webp?v=1655259386"},{"product_id":"lega-bwami-mask-congo-66","title":"Lega Bwami Mask, Congo: #66","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Bwami Mask, Congo #66\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe heart-shaped face covered with kaolin is very characteristic of the Lega art.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used as part of the cult of the Bwami, an association that organized the social structure \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand ensured the stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements : About 9 Inches high\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Medium\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123889418325,"sku":"#66 Lega Mask","price":1400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/jmikeifv.jpg?v=1657764985"},{"product_id":"lega-lukwakongo-passport-maskette-democratic-republic-of-congo-57","title":"Lega Lukwakongo Passport Maskette, Democratic Republic of Congo #57","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLega Lukwakongo Passport Maskette, Democratic Republic of Congo #57\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLukwakongo maskettes are small and light wooden masks belonging to high-ranking members of the Bwami (rank Yananio). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used in the cult of the Bwami, a level society whose rites were reserved for the initiates. This association organized the social structure and ensured the stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established mainly in the east of the Congo Drc, east of the Lwalaba River (the Congo River), up to the altitude in the Mitumba Mountains,in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOrigins: Democratic Republic of Congo.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMaterial: Wood\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 4 Inches high\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Medium\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBase is included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123900264533,"sku":"#57 Lega Passport","price":725.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/mh3bvep7.jpg?v=1657935049"},{"product_id":"large-and-fine-metoko-figure","title":"Metoko Kukungu Male Figure, Congo #174","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMetoko Kukungu Male Figure, Congo #174\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVery beautiful stylization of the face and the silhouette which aesthetically gives the statue an almost \"robot\" style.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Metoko People are the descendants of Lega migrants settled in the area of the middle Lwalaba, in the heart of the Equatorial Forest. Like the Lega People, their Political and Social Life is organized around a Secret Initiatory Association, the Bukota. The Bukota Society welcomes both men and women, and is compared to the Bwami Society of the Lega People. They are also culturally very close to their neighbors the Lengola People.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eKakungu Figures, which belong to Bukota Initiates occupying the highest positions of the Village Governing Society, are used during the Initiation Rites and Funerary Rites; the beginnings of Community Life, as well as the End.\u003cbr\u003eThey indicate Rank and Status among Bukota Society Members, and usually represent a Male or Female Ancestor.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe term Kakungu symbolizes an old person, full of dignity and power, who has fallen victim to Witchcraft or Ritual Pollution. Adapted from page 382 of \"Treasures of Africa - Tervuren Museum\"\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe Kakungu Figures, often geometric and decorated with incised and sometimes colored spots, played a role in the context of Initiation Ceremonies, and were then placed on the Tombs of High-Ranking Initiates. The two upper grades of Bukota Members, Nkumi and Kasimbi, enjoyed the prerogative of physically holding certain Objects of Worship. (ref.: Art and Life in Africa, Christopher D. Roy)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEthnic Group: Metoko - Mituku\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterial: Wood \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 16 1\/4\" inches, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e17 3\/4\" with its base\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Very Good\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eOrigin: Democratic Republic of Congo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40123917205589,"sku":"#174-LJ574","price":2100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/METOKOFigure2_ca78020e-1800-4fc8-b173-6975d4c88752.webp?v=1655259459"},{"product_id":"ofika-mbole-bambole-figure","title":"Mbole Ofika Bambole Figure, Congo #70","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eMbole Ofika Bambole Figure, Congo #70\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Ofika are representations of a hanged prisoner. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese statues served as a warning to anyone \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ewho wanted to break the rules of the Lilwa,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003epower association.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBambole are a people whose rites have remained rather mysterious to us.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe society of the Lilwa (which could be compared to the Bwami of the Lega)= organized the social structure, ensured the stability of the community and punished those who transgressed (among other things the well-kept secrets)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eTheir art is best known for the famous \"OFIKA\", sculptures of hanged criminals, masks are more rare\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThey live in the \"central basin\", they are neighbors of the Kela, the Yela, the Jonga and the Lengola\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eEthnic Groups : Mbole (Bambole) or Yela.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOrigin: Democratic Republic Congo \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e(ex Zaïre, ex Belgian Congo).\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMaterial: Wood\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 10 inches high with its base\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Medium\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40124974661717,"sku":"#70-L411","price":930.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/OfikaMBOLEfigure2.webp?v=1655345554"},{"product_id":"lega-idimu-bwami-mask-congo-61","title":"Lega Idimu Bwami Mask, Congo #61","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Idimu Bwami Mask, Congo #61\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used in the cult of the Bwami, a level society whose rites were reserved for the initiates. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis association organized the social structure and ensured \u003c\/span\u003ethe stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eestablished mainly in the east of the Congo Drc, east of the Lwalaba River (the Congo River), up to the altitude in the Mitumba Mountains, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003ein the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOrigins : Democratic Republic of Congo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMaterial : Wood\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 9 1\/4 Inches high (23.5 cm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition : Very good.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBase is included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40124988358741,"sku":"#61 Lega Mask","price":800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/5yfzqb32.jpg?v=1657936273"},{"product_id":"lega-idimu-bwami-society-mask-congo-50","title":"Lega Idimu Bwami Society Mask, Congo #50","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLega Idimu Bwami Society Mask, Congo #50\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used in the cult of the Bwami, an association that organized the social structure and ensured the stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA similar mask (general shape, mouth and dimensions) is published page 154 in \"Masques, Dapper, 1995,\" \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMeasurements: About 9 1\/2 Inches high\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Very good with fine patina\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBase is included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40124995928149,"sku":"#50 Lega Mask","price":950.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/btxqdpj0.jpg?v=1657937395"},{"product_id":"lega-lukwakongo-bwami-mask","title":"Lega Lukwakongo Bwami Miniature 6\" Mask, Democratic Republic of Congo: #65","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLega Lukwakongo \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eBwami Mask, \u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003eDemocratic Republic of Congo #65\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBeautiful small very light wooden mask\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eHeart-shaped face highlighted by kaolin.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLukwakongo maskettes are small and light wooden masks belonging to high-ranking members of the Bwami (rank Yananio)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used in the cult of the Bwami, a level society whose rites were reserved for the initiatesThis association organized the social structure and ensured the stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established mainly in the east of the Congo Drc, east of the Lwalaba River (the Congo River), up to the altitude in the Mitumba Mountains,in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eOrigin: Democratic Republic of Congo.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMaterial: Wood\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 6 Inches high\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1940's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40125011263573,"sku":"#65 Lega Miniature Mask","price":975.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/prfkxd8t.jpg?v=1658023116"},{"product_id":"rare-double-lega-bwami-idimu-mask-congo-62","title":"Rare Double Lega Bwami Idimu Mask, Congo #62","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRare Double Lega Bwami Idimu Mask, Congo #62\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used as part of the cult of the Bwami, an association that organized the social structure \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eand ensured the stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e Dimensions: Mask is 10\" high approx\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Excellent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe base is included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40125019324501,"sku":"#62 Rare Double Lega Bwami Idimu Mask","price":2400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/244aqua9.jpg?v=1658024056"},{"product_id":"lega-lukwakongo-bwami-mask-1","title":"Lega Lukwakongo Bwami Maskette, Democratic Republic of Congo #72","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Lukwakongo Bwami Mask, \u003cspan\u003eDemocratic Republic of Congo #72\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLukwakongo Maskettes are small and light wooden masks belonging to high-ranking members of the Bwami (rank Yananio) Society\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis type of mask was used in the cult of the Bwami, a level Society whose Sacred and Ceremonial Rites were reserved for the Initiates. This association organized the Social Structure and ensured the Stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eestablished mainly in the east of the Congo DRC, East of the Lwalaba River (the Congo River), up to the altitude in the Mitumba Mountains, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003ein the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMaterial: Wood exhibiting well preserved Kaolin Clay and Black Clay Ritual Patina.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition: Good. Signs of heavy use and wear\u0026gt; Old erosion around the chin and mouth area.s \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMeasurements: About 6 Inches high\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCirca 1930-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOrigin: Democratic Republic of Congo\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40125048389717,"sku":"#72 Lega Lukwakongo Bwami Maskette","price":1200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/g0kls4vc.jpg?v=1658025564"},{"product_id":"lega-female-iginga-figure-congo","title":"Lega Female Iginga Figure, Congo","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Female Iginga Figure, Congo\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe figures used in the cult of the Bwami are generically called Kaginga. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCollective, sacred properties, they are kept in secret, generally in closed wicker baskets. Their use is reserved at passages to the upper (Yananio) and supreme (Kindi) levels.\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe figure is inseparable from the aphorism associated with it.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Bwami is a hierarchical association by ranks which organizes the social structure and ensures the stability of the Lega community\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e Each change of level is accompanied with initiation rites where people talk, sing, dance, mime and exhibit. A multitude of aphorisms are used in stories and songs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe aim is to formulate and to interpret in multiple symbolic ways principles, moral and philosophical values and rules of Bwami, to each and inculcate them, and to bestow upon the initiates the paraphernalia pertinent to their grade level together with their symbolic references, and to convey the resulting power, prestige and privileges. (Biebuyk, Sculptures don not speak 2010)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 10 3\/4 inches high, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e11 3\/4 \" with the base\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Excellent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eSold on Base\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40125081256021,"sku":"Lega Female Kakinga Figure","price":1400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/FemaleLEGAFigure11.webp?v=1655345748"},{"product_id":"lega-idimu-bwami-mask-2","title":"Lega Idimu Bwami Mask, Congo #69","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Idimu \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBwami\u003c\/span\u003e Mask, Congo #69\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of Mask was used in the Cult of the Bwami, an Association that organized the Social Structure and ensured the stability of the Lega Community.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established in the East of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the Provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 8 3\/4 Inches high,\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e( 22.5 cm )\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1940 - 50's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Excellent, Fine Ritual Patina with Traces of Use and Care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBase is included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40125090234453,"sku":"Lega Idimu Bwami Mask, Congo #69","price":1425.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/hdkhnmi9.jpg?v=1658193378"},{"product_id":"large-lega-bwami-idimu-mask","title":"Lega Bwami Idimu Mask, Congo #54","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLega Bwami Idimu Mask, Congo #54\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe \"heart-shaped\" face is covered with Ritual Kaolin Clay, which is frequent characteristic of Lega Ritual Objects. Kaolin Clay, taken from local Riverbeds, was associated with Healing and with a Spiritual, Ancestral Realm of Existence. The Kaolin Clay pigment was applied to the surface of the Mask to confer the Sanctity of the object, and activate it's Spiritual Presence and Power.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLega \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eIdimu Masks are significantly larger than Lukwakongo masks, but stylistically very close. All Lega Masks belong to the village Bwami Society. Small Masks (Lukwakongo) are used for identification and worn on the body or are hung on a fence to represent children of the ancestors. Larger Masks, such as this Idimu (Ancestor) Mask, are worn on the face or back of the head, and can only be worn by Men belonging to the two highest Ranks of the Bwami Society (Yananio and Kindi).\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThese are Collective Masks used during Ceremonies for High-Ranking Members of the Bwami Society, an Association that organized the Social Structure and ensured the Stability of the Lega Community.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu Forest People of Central Africa, established in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 10 3\/4 Inches high \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e(27.3 cm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Excellent. Fine Ritual Patina with Traces of Use and Care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA Custom Base is included\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40126465638485,"sku":"#54-LJ328","price":1400.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/up85z4ni.jpg?v=1658194454"},{"product_id":"lega-lukwakongo-passport-maskette-democratic-republic-of-congo-56","title":"Lega Lukwakongo Passport Maskette, Democratic Republic of Congo #56","description":"\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLega Lukwakongo Passport Maskette, Democratic Republic of Congo  #56\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eLukwakongo maskettes are small and light wooden masks belonging to high-ranking members of the Bwami (rank Yananio)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThis type of mask was used in the cult of the Bwami, a level society whose rites were reserved for the initiatesThis association organized the social structure and ensured the stability of the Lega community.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThe Lega are a Bantu forest people of Central Africa, established mainly in the east of the Congo Drc, east of the Lwalaba River (the Congo River), up to the altitude in the Mitumba Mountains,in the provinces of South Kivu and Maniema.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOrigin: Democratic Republic of Congo.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMaterial: Wood\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eMeasurements: About 4 3\/4 Inches high\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCondition: Excellent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eBase is included\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eCirca 1920-40's\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Beads of Paradise NYC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40126478876757,"sku":"#56 Lega Passport","price":725.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/products\/tecxlvmj.jpg?v=1658365473"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0371\/8597\/collections\/africanhomepage2.jpg?v=1701449534","url":"https:\/\/beadsofparadisenyc.com\/collections\/richard-meyer-gallery-african-art-collection\/ere-ibedji.oembed","provider":"Beads of Paradise","version":"1.0","type":"link"}