12 - RELIC FIGURE

RELIC FIGURE Gabon, Upper Ogooué region, Kota people Late 19th century Wooden core covered with decorated copper and brass sheets. Dimensions: 45 x 26.5 cm (damage on the back) Similar in style to the Shamayé tradition, this reliquary figure is comparable to those from the traditional craft center in the village of Otala. The oval, slightly concave face is framed by a crest embedded in the side headdresses. The face is defined by two lines—one vertical and one horizontal—forming the forehead; the nose is framed by two cabochons representing the eyes; and the mouth and chin are depicted. The headdress and the crescent-shaped crest are covered with finely engraved brass plates. The neck is adorned with a chiseled brass cylinder, encircled by a necklace. The reverse side, devoid of metal decoration, is carved with a stylized face whose eyes are represented by two upholstery nails. The base, now missing, was carved in a diamond shape. Devotion to the relics of the dead is a characteristic feature of the religions of many peoples in Gabon. Ancestors are made to feel even more present when their bones are carefully preserved and are the subject of specific rites. The use of bone boxes was widespread in the Congo and Gabon, particularly among the so-called Kota people. The Kota are the only people in this region to use metal ornamentation covering nearly the entire wooden frame. These portable tombs were displayed on many occasions: during the initiation of young people, clan families would gather, each bringing their own reliquaries. On other occasions, the rites performed by the clan chief were intended to promote women’s fertility and the fertility of the land, ensure abundant hunting and fishing, or contribute to therapeutic healing. PROVENANCE Purchased in Belgium between 2000 and 2005 by the current owner’s grandfather. Expert: Laurent DODIER & Antony MEYER