263 - Woyo, Lower Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Woyo, Lower Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo 20th century A Woyo figure seated cross-legged on a rectangular base, wearing a cap. The face is rendered in a naturalistic style, with chiseled eyes, a slightly parted mouth, and detailed ears. The left hand rests on the chest; the right hand holds a small vessel. Its mouth is open—this is the moyo, the breath of the soul. Wood with a glossy patina in shades of honey and brown H 15 cm Provenance: private collection, Paris Signs of wear and minor chips; small dark marks visible on the arm and shoulder Displayed on a blackened wooden pedestal