Yaka magic figure, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Wood, magic charge, mirror - Height 22 cm

Late 19th, 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 Yaka 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 (or magic figure) are cultural objects to which are attributed supernatural properties, beneficial to their possessor.

Retour De Voyage likes very much every kind of magic figure, and is very proud to present them for sale.