Central Africa, Dominican Republic of Congo, Hemba / Kusu peoples, ca. mid-20th century CE. A fantastic and fascinating wooden power figure known as a kakudji, skillfully hand-sculpted and adorned in a textile skirt and headdress. Boasting a rich, espresso-hued surface, the intriguing figure places both hands on his distended abdomen as he gazes forth, jutting out his prominent pointed chin. His sizeable head features slender eyes beneath arched brows, a naturalistic nose, a gentle smile, and a short beard, all flanked by a pair of large ears and supported by a thick, tubular neck atop broad shoulders. An elaborate headdress crowns the figure, featuring a projecting back section that has been carved into a grid and a cylindrical, tiered top, capped by a bulbous bulk of "magical substances" wrapped in textile. Another cloth ties below his belly, right before the figure expands to rest on an annular base. Size: 3.9" W x 12.5" H (9.9 cm x 31.8 cm); 15.5" H (39.4 cm) on included custom stand.

Intended to serve as receptacles or vessels for spirit beings, kakudji are made in a diverse variety of forms, including Janus-headed, attached to a calabash, or carried as a portable amulet. Specific kakudji are prescribed and consecrated by spiritual mediums to meet the needs of an individual or a family and aid in matters of illness, infertility, or to guarantee safety and success when hunting. These power figures serve as important reminders that their deceased ancestors are continually protecting and assisting them in their daily life, and thus are kept in the household and safeguarded by the head or father of a family who then passes it down to his son. Highly treasured relics, these sacred objects often last for several generations.

This kakudji is a wonderful example of the Kasongo style, known for being most representative of what can be considered a "classical" or "pure" stylistic form. The textile atop the figure's head is most notable as it holds ingredients specially crafted by the medium to activate the spirit within. These substances are often kept in the heads of kakudji as the crown of the head is regarded as the site of communication with spirit entities.

Provenance: private Jersey City, New Jersey, USA collection; ex-private North American collection; ex-private Brussels, Belgium collection; ex-Denise et Beppe Berna Gallery, Bologna, Italy; ex-Pierre Dartevelle collection, Brussels, Belgium

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#169912

Stable fissure to headdress, base, and verso of right shoulder. Some fraying, tearing, and minor losses to fabric. Expected surface wear with a few light nicks and scratches. Otherwise, intact and excellent with nice patina and light earthen deposits throughout.