Kusu / Hemba Carved Wood Standing Figure, Ancestor Effigy, DR Congo

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Bantu / Kusu peoples, likely Hemba culture, ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden figure of a standing individual, its simplified body rising from a conical base and elongated arms bent with fingertips touching. The head is rendered with stylized Bantu features: almond-shaped eyes, chin strap, and a headdress. Figures such as this were often created as commemorative ancestor effigies, power figures, or used in the context of Bwami initiation societies, serving as teaching tools and symbols of status. Size: 3.25" W x 8.75" H (8.3 cm x 22.2 cm) A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. Item # 197422

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