Great stylistic Songye Katatora / Divination tool from DR Congo. Involved in rituals, the “soothsayers”, the mbuki, use special techniques named Katatora or Kashekesheke to solve social problems. During a ritual gathering, the client/questioner and the mbuki both held the figurine while asking questions. Essentially, this is a way to communicate with the ancestors. The sculpture used for that means is named kakishi. The ritual consists in a personal ritual in which the mbuki tries to discover the causes of stress, illness and misfortune through rituals, and to favour the well-being of the questioner. They both hold one side of the figurine while a question is asked, and a confirmation or a denial as response follows. Problems are clarified and lead to a solution.
Hard wood with a wonderful patina of wear in a brown nuanced colour.

Provenance: former private collection from Germany

Object:

Katatora

Ethnic group:

Songye

Country:

DR Congo

Material:

Wood

Period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

No

Dimensions:

23x11x11 cm

Weight:

600 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $100.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $39.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

International: Foreign shipping rates are determined by destination. International shipping may be subject to VAT.

Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.

Location: This item ships from The Netherlands

Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.