Azande Miniature Figure Congo 6 inch
Width: 3.5
Depth: 3.0
Description
The Azande people, residing in Central Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Central African Republic, are renowned for their intricate wood carvings depicting animals, human figures, and abstract designs. These carvings hold cultural and spiritual significance, often representing important concepts. Additionally, Azande culture incorporates divination boards adorned with carvings to communicate with spirits.
Azande's cultural diversity stems from various kingdoms governing them over the past two centuries. Their history became known primarily through anthropological studies, notably by Sir Edward Evan Evans-Pritchard in the 1950s. Within Azande culture, figures called Yanda symbolize protective spirits, used in rituals to cure illnesses or cast spells. The Mani cult, involving both men and women, aimed to ensure health and prosperity for its members, utilizing charm figures adorned with natural pigments and local scarification patterns.
Azande sculpture shares similarities with neighboring cultures like the Ngbaka and the Ngbande, particularly in abstracted figures. However, these sculptures are less common today, with most believed to have been crafted in the early 20th century. Overall, Azande carvings hold significant aesthetic and cultural value, attracting interest from collectors worldwide.
Dimensions: 6 x 3.5 x 3 inches
149238
Approximate Age: Early 20th Century
People: ["Azande"]
Country of Origin: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.