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40 - KONGO STATUE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO Wood H.
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Estimate €7,000 - €10,000
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Description
KONGO STATUE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO Wood H.: 52.5 cm (20??? in.) A Kongo figure, Democratic Republic of the Congo Provenance: Collection of Jean-Jacques Rotthier (1932–2009), Brussels, then passed down through the family This commemorative sculpture, known as a tumba, was intended to represent a high-ranking ancestor. Carved from a light wood and housed in an open shrine, it established a link between the world of the living and that of the ancestors. The figure is depicted in the so-called funda nkata posture, a cross-legged sitting position that evokes a leader of ‘good repute’, prioritising reflection and self-control over impulsive action. This work can be attributed to an anonymous master active in the Mayombe region in the late 19th century. Whilst his contemporary, the ‘Master of Kasadi’, is famous for his figures of motherhood, the sculptor of this work stands out for his masterful treatment of the mpu, the prestigious headdress reserved for dignitaries. Unlike most regional sculptures, which are characterised by tall, crested headdresses, the artist has depicted the mpu in such a way as to recreate the appearance of headdresses woven from raffia and golden pineapple fibres. The mpu was one of the essential symbols of authority. Its characteristic geometric patterns, often embellished with stylised depictions of leopard claws, served to identify the wearer’s rank within the social hierarchy. By depicting the chief wearing this prestigious insignia, the sculptor emphasises the legitimacy of his power and his eminent status. The figure holds a bottle in his hand, a symbol of both temporal and spiritual power. In the 19th century, such objects identified the deceased as a prosperous merchant, integrated into international trade networks. On a deeper level, the bottle alludes to mastery over ‘Western spirits’, through a set of associations between imported alcohol and the invisible forces linked to it. Combined with the robustness of the body, the fullness of the forms and the meditative expression on the face, it helps to make this sculpture the embodiment of the ideal Kongo chief: a powerful, wise and prosperous man. A KONGO FIGURE DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC OF THE CONGO Wood H.: 20??? in. Provenance: Jean-Jacques Rotthier Collection (1932–2009), Brussels, then by descent This commemorative sculpture, known as a tumba, was created to represent a high-ranking ancestor. Carved from lightweight wood and displayed within an open shrine, it served as a bridge between the world of the living and the ancestral realm. The figure is depicted in the funda nkata posture—a cross-legged seated position signifying a leader of “good repute”, one who values thoughtful reflection over impulsive action. This work may be attributed to an anonymous master active in the Mayombe region during the late nineteenth century. Whilst his contemporary, the ‘Master of Kasadi’, is renowned for his maternity figures, the sculptor responsible for this piece is distinguished by his masterful rendering of the mpu, the royal prestige cap. Unlike most regional figures, which feature high-crested hairstyles, this artist carved the mpu to imitate headwear woven from raffia and golden pineapple fibres. The mpu was a crucial emblem of authority. Its distinctive geometric patterns and motifs—often incorporating stylised leopard claws—signalled the wearer’s rank within the social hierarchy. By depicting the chief wearing this elaborate headdress, the artist underscores his legitimate right to rule. The figure holds a bottle, a potent symbol of both worldly and spiritual power. In the nineteenth century, such objects identified the deceased as a prosperous trader with access to international markets. More importantly, the bottle signifies the chief’s command over ‘Western spirits’, reflecting the interplay between imported alcohol and the powerful spiritual forces associated with it. Combined with the figure’s robust physique, healthy features and contemplative expression, the sculpture embodies the Kongo ideal of leadership: a ruler who is strong, wise and prosperous.
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About the sale The Jean-Jacques Rotthier Collection: Art from Africa and Oceania
Auction location
Auction time 09/08/2026 at 4:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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