Mythological figure. Vili culture, Cabinda, Angola. Wood and glass. On a large base.
20 cm high (without base).
All the authors agree in classifying this type of figure in the category of mythological sculpture. The snake with the head of a feline and the characters represented weave a network of meanings that are difficult to interpret.
Idealized representation of the ancestor, its presence on an altar ensures the attention of the ancestors. The invocation is accompanied by libations with palm wine, suggested by the figure that she holds maternally on her knee. In his daily task of protecting the living, he provides food or heals them with the decoction of plants inside the container.
The mythical serpent that runs along the back of the figure alludes to the shape of the rainbow capable of stopping tropical rain by wrapping with his body "tying again" the earth and the sky. Powerful symbolic image that restores order after the fertilizing rain and storm, if we are not before the serpent-totem, guardian of the well-being of the family, which aggressively watches over the intruder who tries to introduce disorder into their lives.
As a statue- Fetish that it is, the tradition of the Vili people locates the place where the guardian spirit resides in the womb, behind the reliquary and in the form of symbolic materials with magical properties that give it power. To revitalize the spirit, the statue receives continuous ablutions with red bark powder mixed with palm oil that achieves the beautiful patina of devotional objects. 20 cm high (without base)
This lot requires export license
DECORATIVE ARTS
Starting price
2.750 €
NOT SOLD
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