A RARE AND IMPORTANT BASIKASINGO ANCESTOR FIGURE (MIZI)

拍品描述

Late 19th/Early 20th Century, Democratic Republic of the Congo, this powerfully conceived wood sculpture represents a male ancestor figure, carved in the distinctive and highly sought-after "Pre-Bembe" style of the Basikasingo people. The figure stands with a rigid, monumental presence, characterized by its severe geometric abstraction and deep, encrusted patina. The oversized, ovoid head is dominated by large, protruding "coffee-bean" eyes set within deep sockets, a long, slender nose, and a small, pursed mouth. These features are framed by a sharp, angular jawline and topped by a tiered, columnar coiffure. The torso is elongated and slender, with wide, squared shoulders that thrust forward, leading to attenuated arms terminating in simplified hands resting against the thighs. The navel is prominently carved as a projecting cone, symbolizing the ancestral lineage. The figure is supported by short, sturdy legs with defined calves, standing upon an integral, block-like rectangular base. Overall good antique condition with rich patina, stable desiccation cracks and surface wear consistent with age and handling. Please refer to the photos for more details. Height: 22-1/2". Provenance: From the extensive African mask collection of a senior New Jersey collector. Cultural Context: The Basikasingo, located in the eastern regions of the DRC near Lake Tanganyika, produced these figures—known as mizi or mizimu—to serve as physical conduits for the spirits of deceased clan founders. Unlike the more naturalistic sculptures of the neighboring Hemba, Basikasingo art is defined by this "cubistic" and vigorous approach to form. Such figures were traditionally housed in small family shrines, where they received offerings to ensure the continued protection and fertility of the lineage. 品相： Juliet and Friends provides reasonable and reliable in-house shipping to help our bidders unless otherwise stated. Please refer to julietandfriends.com for more shipping information. Photographs are considered part of the lot descriptions - what is shown is what is offered. While we strive to describe items accurately, our description may be subjective and is intended for reference only. All lots are sold AS IS and WHERE IS in accordance with our Terms & Conditions. It is the Buyer's responsibility to inspect each lot and deem their own opinions on Condition, Description etc. before purchasing. Condition reports and additional images are available upon request as a courtesy to bidders; such reports are opinions only and do not constitute statements of fact. The absence of a condition report does not imply a lot is free from age-related wear or imperfections. All measurements and weights are approximate. Item compositions are not tested unless explicitly stated. Display accessories (e.g., stands) shown in photos are for presentation only and are not included unless noted. We strongly encourage prospective bidders to review all available information, request condition details, or arrange in-person viewing prior to the auction. Please contact us at info@julietandfriends.com or call (551) 502-2706 for assistance.

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