African graffiti figures; funeral figurine; “Thinkers'...

Due to tribal wars in the border region between Congo and Angola, these sculptures were shipped by Benedictine missionaries in the 1960s–1970s from Zaire – Kinshasa, Republic – Congo (Congolese population) to the Maria-Toevlucht Abbey in Zundert. In the 1980s, acquired from my father. They are so-called Mintadi (Ntadi) – Bitumba figures, Also known as African figural sculptures; funerary figurine; “Thinkers/Watchers.” Made of soapstone. Legs crossed in a seated position, a contemplative meditation pose. Gifts placed by the community for respected elders. They had a role of protection and guardianship. In the culture of the Congo people this signifies contact between the living and the dead (spirits). An embodiment of a deceased person takes the form of a thinking figure, often with his left hand pressed to his cheek. Their posture expresses the concern of someone who is responsible for the future of his family, clan, or lineage. They retain magical powers. There are 15 different ones in the auction, see the last photo. In 1996 from my father’s estate. Over the years, piece by piece purchased at the Maria Abbey - Toevlucht, Rucphenseweg 38, 4882 KC Zundert.

Estimate:$1.12

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