Tribal Art, online sale of tribal art, primitive art and primitive art

Tribal art > African Statues > Songye statue

Songye statue (N° 20623)

Ample head with the features of the kifwebe mask for this work sculpted by the Songye, dedicated to a traditional magical use. This large fetish was individualized by the nganga for his client through symbolic and ritual elements in the form of metal, animal skin skirt, belt forming a braided raffia coil, and summit horn.
Misses, velvety matt patina, cracks.
These protection fetishes intended for dwellings come in a variety of styles in the many chiefdoms of Songye country. The Nkisi, Nkishi, acts as a mediator between gods and men. The large specimens are the collective property of an entire village, the smaller figures being of private use.
In the 16th century, the Songyes 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 Songyes have created statues used during secret ceremonies, covered with accessories such as feathers, skin and a horn full of magic charge. Very present in their society, the divination allowed to discover the sorcerers and to bring clarifications on the causes of the misfortunes which struck the individuals.  

Watch the video

Sold 


This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity

Estimated shipping cost





OriginCollection P. Malisse
EthnySongye
Countryrdc ex zaire
Material(s)wood, metal, peau, plant fibre
Height cm68
Depth22 cm
Width21 cm
Weight5.80 Kg
Estimated datingmid-xx°
Socle includedYes

You could also be interested by these items
Statue TekeStatue KwereStatue SenoufoStatue YorubaStatue Buyu

You must login to access these options
   Warn me if a similar item is added to the catalog
   Warn me if the price decreases
Manage my alerts


You have question on this item ? contact us


Previously viewed items
Tribal art - Songye statueTribal art - Songye fetish Tribal art - Kongo statueTribal art - Nkondi statueTribal art - Boli fetishTribal art - Kongo fetishTribal art - Dogon altarTribal art - Kishi FetishTribal art - Statue TekeTribal art - Songye statue
Tribal art  -  New York - Paris - London

© 2023 - Digital Consult SPRL

Essentiel Galerie SPRL
73A Rue de Tournai - 7333 Tertre - Belgique
+32 (0)65.529.100
visa Master CardPaypal