A finely carved female wood figure

Description:

Tabwa, Zaire, Democratic Republic Congo
H. 23 cm
A remarkably fine and high-quality female ancestral figure, displaying the characteristic stylistic features of this tribe belonging to the Bantu ethnic group of southeastern Zaire. Ribbed lines are employed to render a central tattoo on the torso, as well as to frame the triangular breasts and to delicately embellish the eyes, forehead, and nasal area. The hands are placed symmetrically against the sides of the body. A long, braid-like coiffure descends along the back to the buttocks and is carved in relief with diamond-shaped motifs. The circular base plinth is encircled by a zigzag band. Black patina with partial encrustations. An outstanding collector’s piece.
From the collection of Helmut Zake (1918-1995), Heidelberg, German historian and founder of the Society for Ethnology and Tribal Art, inherited within the family - Minor wear, partly only few age cracks