Initiation Statue – Wood, Feathers – Lengola – Congo

Description

Powerful Lengola figure from DR Congo with horizontal scarifications.
The Lengola, are established near the Metoko in the center of teh Congolese basin between the Lomami and Lualaba rivers, a primary forest people dedicated to the worship of a single God, a rar monotheism in Africe. Their society, the Bukota, welcoming both men and women, is the equivalent of the Bwami association of the Lega. Their sculptures, subject to the influence of the neighboring Mbole, Lega and Binja, played a role during inititiation, funeral or circumcicion ceremonies, and were then placed on the tomb of high rank initiaties. Each of these figures had a name and a meaning for educational purposes, as in the Lega traditions.[Art and Life in Afica ; C.D. Roy’Fleuve Congo F. Neyt; 100 people of Zaire and their sculpture, M.L. Félix]
Good condition with traces of wear and tear.

Provenance: former private German collection.

Object:

Initiation Figure

Ethnic group:

Lengola

Country:

DR Congo

Material:

Wood, Feathers

Period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

No

Dimensions:

27x5x5 cm

Weight:

160 gram

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $80.00

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.

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Location: This item ships from Netherlands

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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.

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Initiation Statue – Wood, Feathers – Lengola – Congo

Lot 0060

Estimate $100-$120May 20, 2026, 12:00 PM EDT

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