This particular piece is a representation of a royal ancestor.
The figure's hands are placed on both sides of the belly, while the face exudes dignity, authority, and masculinity, while the torso is covered in intricate designs that serve as a symbolic language. It is believed that the bodies of ancient Ndengese kings were scarified in the same way as the torso of this figure.
They share cultural and artistic similarities with the Mongo and the Kuba.
A distinguishing feature of the Ndengese statues is that they end just below the pubic area, without legs. Statues usually feature abundant and elaborate scarifications over the body. The rolls of the elongated neck and a simple flared coiffure are also one of the characteristics of the Ndengese figures.
Statues like this are said to represent the king and were believed to embody his power. The hands posed around the navel recalls the common origin of those who depend on the chief.
Height: 14" x Width: 5" x Depth: 3 ¼".
