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MILLON
152
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Katatora" friction oracle with head surmounted by a stepped …
See original version (French)
152
-
Katatora" friction oracle with head surmounted by a stepped …
See original version (French)
Estimate €200 - €400
Voluntary lot
Description
Katatora" friction oracle
with head surmounted by a stepped matted headdress
Wood, old russet and brown patina, marks of use
Luba, Democratic Republic of Congo
11.5 × 4 × 6 cm
Friction oracles known as 'Katatora' were used in Luba divinatory practices to question invisible forces and obtain answers related to illness, conflict or important group decisions. Handled by friction during consultations, these objects accompanied the ritual specialists in mediation and interpretation.
This example shows a gentle face surmounted by a finely structured headdress with tiered plaits. The regular pattern of the plaits, the sobriety of the modelling and the traces of use visible on the surface give this small sculpture an intimate presence and a real plastic quality.
Provenance :
Collected in Katanga (Belgian Congo) between 1952 and 1970 by Charles Mahauden, a Belgian colonial administrator nicknamed Kisongokimo by the Grand Chief of the Baluba.
Author of : Mahauden, Charles, Kisongokimo - Chasse et magie chez les Balubas, Paris, Flammarion, coll. "L'Aventure vécue", 1965, 252 p.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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