232 - Kota, Gabon, early 20th century

Kota, Gabon, early 20th century Mbulu ngulu reliquary figure Wood, brass, copper. A highly stylized wooden core is covered with sheets of brass that are stapled in place and decorated with geometric motifs created using the repoussé technique. Height: 50.5, Width: 31 cm. With base: Total height: 59 cm. Provenance: Acquired from Mr. Alain Chesne, Archaïa Gallery, Lyon; private collection, Tours. This sculpture stands out for the power of its geometry and the simplification of its volumes, which transform the human figure into an abstract construction, free from any attempt at naturalistic imitation. This quest for plastic autonomy echoes certain Western artistic movements of the early 20th century, marked by a desire to move beyond the representation of reality in order to explore the expressive power of forms. The work thus prompts a reflection—one that remains relevant today—on the relationships between figuration and abstraction, symbolic function and plastic power, cultural heritage and artistic modernity.