Zombo fetish statuette, Democratic Republic of the Congo - Wood, polychrome - Height 32 cm

Early 20th century - Private collection, Belgium

The Zombo and Yaka ethnic groups live in the Kwango region. They share similar social structures and practice divination, healing rituals and the initiation of boys. The Zombo sculpt statues with fine, realistic features. Diviners use these fetish statues for ceremonies associated with initiation rites characteristic of Yaka traditions. Fetish sculptures are used to protect against bad luck, to heal or to bring luck, wealth and fertility. In fact, fetishes are cultural objects to which are attributed supernatural properties, beneficial to their possessor.

retour De Voyage loves this statue, perfectly presented together with the collection of African primitiv art.